A number of primary schools across the region are reporting overcrowded classrooms as the new academic year begins.
According to new figures released by the Department of Education almost one in eight children were in a class over the recommended size last year.
Published in today's Irish Independent, the figures reveal just 17 percent of children are in an Irish class below the EU average of 20.
Almost 60% of classes at Melview National School are overcrowded with an average of 25 per room.
In Roscommon, over 50% of classes at St. Attracta's in Ballaghaderreen are over the EU average of 20 with its average class having 27 students.
While Leitrim recorded smaller class sizes it continues to be a concern for a number of schools.
Gealscoil Laoitrima in Carrick-on-Shannon average class size is 26 students with 40% of rooms over the EU average.
