As Ireland is at a pivotal point in its educational journey, National Organization of Irish Teachers (INTO) has introduced a General Election Manifesto which identifies 30 critical areas that require government investment by 2030. Our aim is ambitious: to create the best primary and special education system in the world. This ambition is not mere rhetoric; it is a must.

A world-class education system is the foundation of a thriving society and it is the responsibility of any new government to ensure that every child gets an unrivaled start in life.

The OECD emphasizes that equitable access to quality education is the backbone of a just society. To achieve this, the INTO calls for a 5% increase in the share of total government spending on the school sector between 2026 and 2030. Primary education is the cornerstone of all societal progress and it is clear that the success of an education system is closely linked to the success of the teaching profession. As the UN High Level Group on the Teaching Profession noted, “When we start transforming education systems, we can transform working conditions in schools, we can transform teaching practice, we can transform learning and we can transform lives.”

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The challenges facing primary and special education today are substantial, but so are the opportunities. By taking a comprehensive approach that addresses the diverse needs of students, teachers and schools, Ireland can establish a system that not only meets but exceeds international standards. Our manifesto advocates for smaller class sizes, improved teacher training and professional learning opportunities for teachers, improved infrastructure, and greater resources for special education, all designed to elevate our education system to new heights.

We also need to address the ongoing housing crisis, which is having a significant impact on teacher recruitment and retention. A future government must commit to solutions that ease this burden on our teachers and support their essential work. INTO is committed to supporting an ambitious agenda that prioritizes the needs of our students and teachers alike. Teachers are the heart of our education system and it is essential that they are supported, valued and empowered to inspire the next generation.

We urge the next government to match this ambition with action. The time for incremental changes is over; now is the time for a transformative strategy to address the needs of every child across the nation. By embracing this vision, we can ensure that Ireland not only meets future challenges, but leads in educational excellence. Together, let’s make Ireland a beacon of educational success, where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Our nation’s future depends on it.

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