asked the Minister for Education the most recent available figures for non-attendance at school during the years of compulsory education; the comparable figures for the same period ten years ago; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Non-Attendance at School.
32.
Overall figures for non-attendance of pupils at school are available in respect of national schools only. The latest figures available to my Department are in respect of 1983-84 school year and the average figure for non-attendance was 8.5 per cent. The corresponding figures for 1973-74 was 9.8 per cent.