Following a detailed consultation process, arrangements are being finalised regarding the composition of the educational disadvantage committee to be established under the Education Act, 1998. The size and composition of the committee will be structured with a view to ensuring it can do its work in the most effective way possible, fulfilling its role of advising me on the policies and strategies best adopted to identify and correct educational disadvantage. I will be making an announcement shortly regarding the committee.
I have also decided to establish a larger and related forum to address educational disadvantage. This forum, which will have a broader representation than the committee, will meet twice a year. It will have a vital role in advising the committee on broader issues relating to disadvantage and exclusion from the full benefits of education.