Unions angry at Govt teacher cut plans

Union bosses today hit out at plans to reduce the number of teachers at schools across Ireland this autumn.

They claimed the cuts would lead to bigger classes and cut the number of subjects available to students.

It emerged today that the Department of Education told schools there would be about 300 fewer concessionary teachers available when schools reopen after the summer.

Concessionary teachers are used for supply work and often teach minority subjects.

The news was met with anger by school managers and union officials.

Union representatives are to meet department officials this week to discuss the plan.