Vol. 481 No. 7
301 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has for the extension of the teacher counsellor scheme which started as a pilot venture in selected schools in the north inner city and Clondalkin areas of Dublin; if he will consider the merits of expanding the teacher counsellor service to the disadvantaged schools in the Dublin 15 area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17111/97]
The operation of the pilot phase of the teacher counsellor scheme is being closely monitored by my Department's inspectorate. A detailed evaluation of the scheme is currently under way and I expect to receive a report on the outcome of the evaluation before the end of the 1997-98 school year.
The question of any further expansion of the scheme will be considered following completion of the evaluation and having regard to its findings.
I can assure the Deputy that the needs of schools in the Dublin 15 area will be considered in the context of any expansion of the scheme which may be undertaken.
