FG calls for discussion on education cutbacks

Fine Gael is calling on the country's education partners to discuss where savings can be made in the sector.

The party's education spokesperson, Brian Hayes, said reaching a common consensus on potential cutbacks is essential in order to save frontline services.

It comes in the wake of the An Bord Snip Nua report, which recommended cuts to special needs services and an increase in the pupil-teacher ratio.

Deputy Hayes admitted there will have to be some cuts, but not to teacher numbers.