A large number of teachers are expected to leave the education system in Ireland in the coming months.

This is according to figures obtained by the Irish Independent, which found almost 1,000 educators have applied to take early retirement before the end of February.

Those that do this will be able to secure improved pension benefits based on their 2009 salary - before pay cuts were imposed - under plans set out in the Croke Park agreement.

According to the Department of Education, 584 primary and 367 second-level teachers had applied for early retirement by the deadline of the end of November.

While the Independent suggested this may be good news for the estimated 2,000 newly-qualified individuals who cannot find regular work, there may be concerns about an exodus of experienced staff.

However, the publication has previously reported teachers who have opted for the early retirement package are to be allowed to remain in the classroom until the end of the school year in order to prepare their students for exams, although any that do this will be paid at a lower rate.

Written by Donal Walsh
 

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