Michael Creed
Question:558 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science if the recently established education disadvantage committee included representatives of parents of primary, post primary and special school students. [7533/02]
Written Answers. - Education Disadvantage Committee.
The educational disadvantage committee is composed of 21 members including the chairperson Professor Áine Hyland, Vice-President and Professor of Education at UCC. The composition of this committee is based on an expert rather than a representative model. All the nominees, therefore, were selected on the personal expertise they could offer to the committee in a lifelong learning context while maintaining a balance between all sectors. Parent representatives of primary, post primary and special school students are, therefore, not specifically identified. To facilitate participation by a wide range of education partners as well as bodies and agencies active in tackling social exclusion, I have also established a larger forum to address educational disadvantage. This forum will have a broad representation of all relevant interests including parents, will meet at least twice a year and will have a vital role in advising on issues relating to educational disadvantage and exclusion.
The range of expertise on the committee and the forum will ensure that the needs of all students are considered.