The national educational psychological service, is currently available to all second level schools in the country and approximately one quarter of all primary schools, including 29 primary schools in County Mayo. Unfortunately, Foxford primary school is not yet included in the service. However, the process of extending the service nationwide is continuing as additional psychologists are recruited.
My Department has received an application for resource teacher support in respect of a number of children with special needs attending Foxford primary school. This application is currently being examined by my Department's inspectorate. As soon as the inspectorate has reported, my Department will be in contact with the school authorities in relation to this matter.
Foxford primary school was considered for inclusion in the disadvantaged areas scheme when it was last expanded in 1994. However, the school did not rank high enough on the priority list to secure inclusion in the scheme on that occasion.
I attach particular importance to the issue of educational disadvantage. I will shortly be bringing forward proposals for a major initiative to address the needs of pupils who are encountering educational disadvantage in the primary system.
