Taoiseach denies claims of cut in teacher numbers

The Taoiseach Enda Kenny is denying claims teacher numbers will be cut and third-level students will be capped in the forthcoming Budget.

There has been speculation that as many as 2,000 teaching posts could be axed in next month's Budget.

There has also been speculation that a cap could be placed on third-level places in a bid to deal with the funding crisis.

But Mr Kenny is insisting no such decisions have been made.

Mr Kenny said: "What the Minister of Education is doing is focusing on the projections that are there. Clearly, he is going to have to provide facilities in the years ahead, both for buildings and teachers.

"So there has been no decision made."