North Kerry deputy principal says reducing class sizes would allow rural schools retain teachers

If the Department of Education were to reduce class sizes, rural schools would be better able to retain teachers.

That's according to the deputy principal of Coolard National School, Dermot O'Connell.

The neighbouring Lisselton National School is set to lose one teacher from September.

Deputy principal O'Connell says it's a worrying trend across many rural areas including North Kerry.

Meanwhile, the president of Irish Planning Institute, Gavin Lawlor, is warning that easing planning regulations is not a panacea for rural decline.

He believes better supports for cluster developments would address declining rural populations and consequently help schools and sports clubs.

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