Vol. 547 No. 1
1198 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science his proposals to carry out a comprehensive survey of all second level students within the State to ascertain the views of students across the country on the most pressing issues facing students today; if the survey will ascertain if students support the main conclusions and changes suggested in a report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1674/02]
I have read with interest the Scoil report referred to by the Deputy. There are no plans at present to carry out a comprehensive survey of all students at second level as suggested by the Deputy.
The Education Act, 1998, provides for the establishment of student councils in second level schools as a means of giving students a voice in the operation and life of their school. While the Act does not specifically provide for the establishment of a national body of student representatives, the terms of the Act do not preclude the establishment of such a body and I do not believe that such an amendment is required. Indeed, during the course of last year a new body, the Union of Secondary Students of Ireland – USSI – was established to represent and articulate the views of second level students at national level.
It is most important for students to have the opportunity to express their views on matters of concern to them, be that at school or national level, and the establishment of the USSI is a welcome initiative. I recently met with representatives of the union to listen to and discuss their concerns and I have asked my Department to consider appropriate means for providing practical support and assistance to this new body.
