Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Dec 1995

Vol. 459 No. 7

Written Answers. - Disadvantaged Schools.

Brian Cowen

Question:

39 Mr. Cowen asked the Minister for Education when a decision will be made regarding disadvantaged status for schools based on the Combat Poverty Agency Report which is with her Department for some months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18727/95]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The report to which the Deputy refers is one of the most comprehensive studies of educational disadvantage ever undertaken in the State.

The report examines the concept of educational disadvantage as it impacts on pupils in the education system. It reviews the procedures currently in place to identify and address educational disadvantage. It evaluates the effectiveness of current approaches using a wide range of national and international research. It also raises a range of issues about our current approaches and how they could be improved.

In summary, the report provides a very valuable basis for considering our future approach to the identification and support of educational disadvantage.

The House will appreciate that the factors which give rise to educational disadvantage are many and complex. They have to do with a range of socio-economic and other factors.

My decision to commission a detailed study of this area was taken in recognition of the complexity of the issues involved.

My Department is currently finalising its consideration of the report and I hope to be in a position to make a further and more detailed announcement on this matter in the near future.