Talented mathematicians could be offered bonuses of up to €5,000 to become school teachers in Ireland, if a controversial new proposal is approved.
Many maths graduates pursue roles in the lucrative financial services industry or emigrate rather than choosing teaching as a profession. In the UK however, graduates can claim bonuses of up to £5000 for choosing a career in teaching.
Prof Ted Hurley of the Department of Mathematics, NUI Galway has called for a similar system to be introduced here in an effort to keep new talent in the country.
Professor Hurley believes the move will show the international community that Ireland is supporting mathematics, which he described as "the basis of much of the new technology" our economy depends on.
