INTO concern at unqualified teacher levels

The Irish National Teachers Organisation has expressed concern about figures which suggest that 700 unqualified teachers may be working in Irish primary schools.

A survey conducted by the union in 1,400 schools found that 3% of classes had no qualified teacher.

The INTO has demanded a meeting with Education Minister Noel Dempsey to discuss the matter.

Gerry Malone, the president of the organisation, said his members will refuse to teach in schools with unqualified teachers from 2005 unless the situation is rectified.