Vol. 569 No. 3
244 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children who left full-time education with no qualifications for the most recent year for which full statistics are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17440/03]
247 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the numbers leaving school without a qualification in Dublin city for the most recent year for which full statistics are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17443/03]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 244 and 247 together.
The latest information, published in the NESF report of 2002 on early school leaving, indicates that in 1999, 2,400 – 3.2% – left school without any formal educational qualification. This figure cannot be broken down on a county by county basis. More detailed information relating to the issue of retention through second-level education, including a breakdown by geographical area, is currently being finalised in my Department. I will arrange to have this information forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is available.
Questions Nos. 245 and 246 answered with Question No. 243.
Question No. 247 answered with Question No. 244.
