Education system needs reform

It is the duty of the government of a civilised country that the children have a very good primary education.

There is no guarantee that the children will continue on to secondary school or third level, so it is important that when they leave school at post-primary level they have sufficient skills.

For years there have been reports of the high percentage of primary school-leavers who are almost completely devoid of these skills. Teachers’ unions complain that there is a shortage of teachers.

I believe that there is a shortage of good teachers who are capable of imparting their knowledge and expertise to the pupils, no matter what the size of the class.

There is plenty of talk about the necessity to improve pupils’ maths and science skills, but no positive action.

A few years ago the lack of frequent inspections caused the collapse of the Malahide viaduct and only pure luck avoided a serious tragedy.

For years we have been doctoring the education system and allowing substandard people to occupy vital positions. When this occurs in the public sector the culprit is protected by some trade union agreement and the mess continues.

Richard Prendergast

Rathcormac

Co Cork