C&AG: 'Structural underfunding' in education would have led to fewer teachers and SNAs

The view of the Department of Education's accounting officer, Bernie McNally is noted: 'Education policy is well established and grounded in Government decisions over many years. The policy is bound by and reflects children’s constitutional and legal rights.' Stock picture

"Structural underfunding" in education last year would have equated to 6% fewer teachers, 10% fewer SNAs, and 66,000 fewer pupils on school transport services.

The detail is included in a report from the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), published on Wednesday, examining budget control for the Department of Education.