Views from the conference floor
Meadbh Ní Dhulaing, St Malachy's NS, Edenmore, Dublin:
"I think she said what people wanted to hear. She is a very nice lady but there is a lot to be done. I am teaching 26 boys in junior infants even though we are in a disadvantaged area. I have been teaching for three years."
Ciaran Doherty, Laurel Lodge NS, Castleknock, Dublin:
"I don't think she gave a lot in terms of concrete things that are of practical use. Obviously, class size is the big issue but there was nothing new . . . she was just going back over old ground. I teach 29 children in 4th class. I have been teaching now for five years. My sense is that the whole primary sector remains totally underfunded."
Carmel Gleeson, St Laurence's NS near Athy, Co Kildare:
"I think she is a very good Minister. I am pleased with the progress we are making on class size. Our school has done well in the past few years . . . we have got extra teachers and the whole special needs area has really improved. I like Mary Hanafin. I think she understands teachers."
Siobhan O'Connell, Holy Family NS, River Valley, Swords:
"I think she came with empty hands.There is a sense of nothing happening. I have 26 eight-year-olds in my class. Someone needs to put some fire under the issue [ of class size]. But I like Mary Hanafin and much prefer her to Noel Dempsey. She has more understanding of teachers."
