Capital costs pricing teachers out of jobs

Principals fear staff shortage as people can't afford to live in city

- FERGHAL BLANEY

SCHOOL principals fear there could be classes with no teachers in Dublin when schools return next week as it is too expensive for staff to live in the capital.

The situation is so desperate that graduates with other qualifications in specific subjects are being hired.

The escalating cost of living is hitting those on lower wages hardest, with graduates priced out of the housing market in Dublin and the commuter belt.

Paul Crone, Director of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, told RTE's Today with Claire Byrne how tough it is for his members to fill vacancies in Dublin schools.