Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Jan 1996

Vol. 460 No. 3

Written Answers. - Recognition for Westmeath Pre-school.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

365 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education the plans, if any, she has regarding a submission made to her by an association (details supplied) in County Westmeath in view of the fact that this facility is most helpful to these young children and very positive proposals have been put forward in order to enable this facility to continue. [1330/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I am aware of the submission referred to by the Deputy concerning recognition for a community based pre-school in Moate, County Westmeath. The particular proposals put forward to enable this facility to continue have only been received in my Department very recently and are currently being considered. The association will be advised of the outcome of this consideration as soon as possible.

The early start pre-school programme which I have established is being developed as an integral part of the primary school system. The objective of this initiative is to expose young children to an educational programme which will enhance their overall development and lay a foundation for successful educational attainment in future years. The programme is currently focused on schools serving areas which have been identified as being particularly disadvantaged. I have also established a monitoring committee to advise me on the operation and future development of the early start pre-school programme. This committee is representative of a wide range of interests involved in the provision of pre-school services.