Vol. 456 No. 1
147 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Education if disadvantaged status will be granted to a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary due to the high social and unemployment problems in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13588/95]
Earlier this year I commissioned the Combat Poverty Agency to conduct a detailed study of current approaches to the identification and support of pupils in disadvantaged areas. The criteria used to determine eligibility for inclusion in the disadvantaged areas scheme are among the matters covered by the study.
A report on the outcome of this study has now been received in my Department and is currently being considered. This report will provide a basis for the development of future approaches to the identification and support of children suffering educational disadvantage. The needs of the school referred to by the Deputy will be considered in the context of any future expansion of the disadvantaged areas scheme.
