The survival of many small primary schools could be under threat as a result of cuts to the education system in Ireland.

This is the warning of the Irish Primary Principals Network (IPPN), which has stated it is dismayed at both the range and depth of reductions announced in last week's Budget, RTE reports.

A survey conducted by the organisation in the last few days has estimated up to 730 teachers could be lost from 470 schools over the next three years.

It stated there are other ways of addressing the needs of smaller educational establishments without forcing closures.

The IPPN highlighted the examples of nations such as Canada, Australia and Finland, which have all improved the administration and management of remote schools without compromising the needs of local communities.

Recently, the IPPN said the Budget was a "missed opportunity" for reforming the primary school system in Ireland, as it does not address some of the inefficiencies within the sector.

Written by Donal Walsh

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