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Wednesday, 3 Feb 2021

Written Answers Nos. 346-373

Defence Forces Recruitment

Questions (346, 351)

Duncan Smith

Question:

346. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence the maximum number of recruitment applications the Defence Forces can process in a year for the Reserve and Permanent Defence Force, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5687/21]

View answer

Duncan Smith

Question:

351. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence the reason current recruitment structures mean that the Permanent Defence Force and Reserve Defence Force must compete for the resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5692/21]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 346 and 351 together.

New organisational structures were introduced for the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) in 2013 which involved the establishment of a ‘Single Force’ structure. Under the Single Force Structure, Formations play a central role in RDF and Permanent Defence Force (PDF) recruitment, with oversight provided by Recruitment and Competitions Section. From January 2021, a rolling recruitment model for the RDF is being implemented, which is similar to the model currently used for the PDF General Service recruitment.

In the context of finite resources and personnel, it is necessary to strike an appropriate balance in terms of PDF and RDF recruitment in order to maintain the capacity of the Defence Forces to undertake all roles assigned by Government. While the Government remains fully committed to on-going recruitment in the RDF, it should be noted that the same personnel and resources are utilised for both PDF and RDF recruitment. Given the competing recruitment demands at present, PDF recruitment is, and will remain a priority.  However, recruitment to the RDF will be progressed having regard to the available resources.

The military authorities have advised that while the organisation can process a significant number of applications in any given year, the volume is dependent on a number of variable factors. 

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (347)

Duncan Smith

Question:

347. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence the elements of training, administration or duties that have been carried out remotely since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5688/21]

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Written answers

The information sought could not be collated within the timeframe for the Deputy.

I will revert to the Deputy as soon as the information is made available to me by the Military Authorities.

The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to the Deputy's Parliamentary Question for answer on 3 February 2021, “To ask the Minister for Defence the elements of training, administration or duties that have been carried out remotely since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter.”
While it was not possible to provide the requested information to you within the given timeframe, I am now in a position to provide information on this matter.  
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Defence Forces, in line with other civil and public service organisations, have adhered to public health advice and to the Guidance for Public Service Employers published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.  
In accordance with the Government Direction on essential services, Defence Forces operations are continuing, at home and overseas, albeit under revised conditions which are designed to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of its personnel.  
I am advised by the Military Authorities that where appropriate, the Defence Forces facilitate the periodic remote working for some personnel. However, given the fundamental nature of military service, the organisation has a very limited capacity in this regard, as many Defence Forces appointments and tasks are not suitable to this practice. Remote working is utilised for specific appointments for which it is suited and having regard to the requirement to develop and maintain an appropriate level of military capability. Where appropriate, the Defence Forces will facilitate some administrative duties via remote working or relocation of personnel through the network of military installations throughout the country however this is not always operationally possible or appropriate given the nature of military service.  
I am further advised by the Military Authorities that Defence Forces training and education courses continue to be conducted as deemed necessary with force protection measures in place. A number of education programmes have been conducted remotely (either partially or in total) as a result of the impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Where face-to-face or collective training in a tactical environment remains fundamental to the objectives and desired outcomes of a military training programme, the Defence Forces continues to exercise all necessary precautions, diligence and duty of care required for the conduct of same.
With regard to the recent publication of the "Making Remote Work: National Remote Work Strategy" by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the commitments made in the Programme for Government relating to remote working across the public sector, I can confirm that the Defence Organisation is examining these policies and commitments in the context of the unique nature of military service and the requirement to deliver effective military capability when and where required.   
I trust this is of assistance to the Deputy.

Defence Forces Personnel

Questions (348)

Duncan Smith

Question:

348. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence the number of personnel within the Defence Forces who are currently working from home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5689/21]

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Written answers

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Defence Forces, in line with other civil and public service organisations, have adhered to public health advice and to the Guidance for Public Service Employers published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. 

In accordance with the Government Direction on essential services, Defence Forces operations are continuing, at home and overseas, albeit under revised conditions which are designed to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of its personnel.

I am advised by the Military Authorities that where appropriate, the Defence Forces facilitate the periodic working from home of some personnel. However, given the fundamental nature of military service, the organisation has a very limited capacity in this regard, as many Defence Forces appointments are not suitable to this practice.

Working from home is utilised for specific appointments for which it is suited and having regard to the requirement to develop and maintain an appropriate level of military capability. Consequently numbers can and will vary and I am advised that it is not possible to provide a definitive number at any given time.

With regard to the recent publication of the "Making Remote Work: National Remote Work Strategy" by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the commitments made in the Programme for Government relating to remote working across the public sector, I can confirm that the Defence Organisation is examining these policies and commitments in the context of the unique nature of military service and the requirement to deliver effective military capability when and where required.   

Defence Forces Properties

Questions (349)

Duncan Smith

Question:

349. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence if there are plans to sell off military property or installations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5690/21]

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Written answers

I can advise the Deputy that there are currently no plans, nor are there any Defence Forces' properties for sale, on the open market.  I have previously  indicated that my  Department has had proactive engagements with the Land Development Agency (LDA), following confirmation of its interest in acquiring the former Columb Barracks in Mullingar for the development of housing provision. To this end, my officials continue to liaise with the LDA in order to facilitate the early transfer of these lands and property.

The LDA have also confirmed a future interest in acquiring the St. Bricin’s medical facility in Dublin 7.  My officials are progressing the necessary preparatory matters in this regard.

In addition, the former Reserve Defence Forces facility, Rockbrae House, Bray which is surplus to military requirements, is to be transferred to Wicklow County Council for social housing development in the coming months.  

The Department is also progressing the disposal of properties in Crinkill (County Offaly), Fermoy (County Cork) and Castlebar (County Mayo). These properties are at various stages in the disposal process and the intention is to finalise sale in 2021, subject to the normal legal exigencies of the conveyance process.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (350)

Duncan Smith

Question:

350. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces personnel who have contracted Covid-19 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5691/21]

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Written answers

The Military Authorities have advised that as of 28 Jan 2021 the total number of recorded positive COVID-19 cases within the Defence Forces is 440 of which 59 remain active.

Covid-19 is impacting across all sectors, including the Defence Forces.  I would like to acknowledge and commend the work of the whole organisation and indeed all other front- line service providers in maintaining key operations, including the ability to respond to emergencies, in the face of unprecedented disruptions across many areas of Irish life at this time.

I am informed that, to date, Covid-19 transmission levels and case numbers among members of the Defence Forces are broadly in line with current general population averages. 

Question No. 351 answered with Question No. 346.

Defence Forces Allowances

Questions (352)

Duncan Smith

Question:

352. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence if there are allowances for reservists to travel to training or courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5693/21]

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Written answers

Defence Force Regulation R5 (DFR R5) is the governing Regulation for the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve. DFR R.5 facilitates the payment of travel allowances to Reservists.  

These are remunerated in line with the provisions for pay and allowances for both the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force, which are set out in Defence Force Regulation S.3.  

Defence Forces Operations

Questions (353)

Duncan Smith

Question:

353. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence if operational requirements have been postponed or cancelled due to Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5694/21]

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Written answers

Covid-19 is impacting across all sectors, including the Defence Forces.  I would like to acknowledge and commend the work of the whole organisation, including both the Naval Service and the Air Corps, in maintaining key operations, including the ability to respond to emergencies, in the face of unprecedented disruptions across many areas of Irish life at this time.

To date, Covid-19 transmission levels and case numbers among members of the Defence Forces are broadly in line with current general population averages.  In early January there was a direct impact on Naval Service and Air Corps normal operations as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In light of the outbreak of Covid-19 on a number of ships, in consultation with medical personnel and the HSE, Naval Service HQ are currently implementing a 'clean ship' policy which ensures that ships should be able to remain at sea for their full scheduled patrol.

In response to the recent impact of Covid-19 instances among Air Corps personnel, the Air Corps implemented a number of measures in order to safely continue with framework operations and maintaining aircraft at high readiness for various Maritime Defence and Security Operations, cargo and personnel transport and air ambulance as required.

Defence Forces Recruitment

Questions (354)

Duncan Smith

Question:

354. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence the measures being taken to specifically attract and recruit information technology personnel from the private sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5695/21]

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Written answers

The Communications and Information Services (CIS) Corps is responsible for the provision and maintenance of communications and information systems for the Defence Forces. Where specific needs arise in any area of the Defence Forces that cannot be filled by military personnel, civilian employee roles may be advertised openly through a number of channels, including military.ie, The Department of Defence website, JobsIreland and through the Public Appointments Service.  The issue of direct entry specialist personnel is also under consideration in the context of a review of recruitment for the Permanent Defence Force.

Overseas Missions

Questions (355)

Neale Richmond

Question:

355. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Defence if there is scope to strengthen the presence of the Defence Forces in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of west Africa to ensure that Ireland plays a larger role in global maritime security as the EU launched the first pilot of the new co-ordinated maritime presences concept on 25 January 2021. [5815/21]

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Written answers

On 25th January 2021, the Council of the EU approved conclusions launching the first pilot case of the Coordinated Maritime Presences (CMP) concept in the Gulf of Guinea as the Maritime Area of Interest and the creation of the Maritime Area of Interest Coordination Cell (MAICC).

The Gulf of Guinea continues to face a challenging environment in which piracy, armed robbery at sea, kidnapping of seafarers, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, smuggling and trafficking of drugs and arms, as well as transnational organised crime pose a major and increasing threat to maritime security, affecting freedom of navigation, thus endangering major trade routes, jeopardising the sustainable development of the entire region and the economic livelihood of the population, and leading to the deterioration of the environment and biodiversity.

The EU Coordinated Maritime Presences Concept aims to enhance the EU’s visibility through a coordination of the presence of EU Member State assets in areas of concern where there are ongoing activities which could constitute a threat to international peace and security.  The purpose of such a continuous presence is to support information gathering and analysis so as to develop greater situational awareness of key areas of maritime security interest, to support the security of States in the area of interest and to be able to counter illicit activities. The Maritime Coordinated Mechanism is distinct from CSDP missions and operations

Given the current constraints being experienced in the Naval Service and the availability of assets, there are currently no plans to deploy Defence Forces personnel or assets to the Gulf of Guinea. My Department and the Defence Forces will continue to follow the evolution of this pilot initiative.

Pension Provisions

Questions (356)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

356. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education the reason a pension entitlement transfer request by a teacher (details supplied) was not answered or processed; if this request can now be processed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5008/21]

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Written answers

I have made enquiries with regard to the case of the person to whom the Deputy refers and wish to provide the following clarification:  At the time of this person’s application for transfer of pension entitlements there were a significant number of such requests on hand and they were being handled in date and priority order.  This person’s case had not yet been actioned by the time of a UK legislative change which resulted in changed policy in 2017.   Historically, the UK’s Qualified Registered Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) scheme was a UK facility that enabled transfers, tax-free, from UK pension schemes, to an overseas scheme that was QROPS registered. However budgetary changes that occurred in the UK in 2017 introduced a 25% tax charge, referred to as an overseas transfer charge, that can become payable in respect of the transferred funds to the QROPS schemes, under certain conditions. As part of these changes, managers of overseas pension schemes registering for QROPS are required to sign an undertaking that they would be jointly and severally liable for the overseas transfer charge, should it arise, along with the individual. This requirement of the UK tax authorities remains.  As a result of this change, and following DPER guidance, most Irish public service pension scheme did not (re)register for QROPS, as providing such an undertaking in respect of publicly funded Irish public service schemes effectively amounts to the State guaranteeing an individual’s tax liability. My Department is guided by DPER in this respect and therefore the application was not processed because the mechanism was suspended.  Officials in my Department have made direct contact with the person in question to discuss her position further. 

School Transport

Questions (357)

Cathal Crowe

Question:

357. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Education if her Department will liaise with Bus Éireann with a view to changing the nearest school criteria for the school transport scheme in view of the fact that many pupils cannot attend their closest school due to capacity issues. [5009/21]

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Written answers

School Transport is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education. In the current school year over 113,100 children, including over 14,500 children with special educational needs, are transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country at a cost of over €224.7m in 2020.

The purpose of my Department's School Transport Scheme is, having regard to available resources, to support the transport to and from school of children who reside remote from their nearest school.  Under the terms of the scheme, children are eligible for school transport where they reside not less than 4.8kms at post-primary and 3.2kms at primary from and are attending their nearest school/post-primary centre as determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.

In October 2019, my predecessor announced a review of the school transport scheme with a view to ensuring funds are being spent in the most effective way  to meet the objectives of the scheme.  Terms of reference and the scope of the review have been drafted and a Steering Group has been established.

Given the current evolving situation with Covid-19 and the continued restrictions the work of the Steering Group has been delayed. It is intended to convene the Steering Group shortly and to agree and supplement revised terms of reference to reflect the Programme for Government.

The Review will build on the proposals in the Programme for Government as they relate to school transport, including examining the options to reduce car journeys and assessing how the School Transport Scheme can work in liaison with the Safe Routes to Schools Programme; examining the options for providing a better value and a better service for students, including and examining issues such as the nearest or next-nearest school.

State Examinations

Questions (358)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

358. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education her views on a survey by a student (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5028/21]

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Written answers

My Department is acutely aware of the challenges faced by students, teachers and families as a result of COVID-19. The pandemic has brought significant challenges to the education system, and I am acutely aware of the impacts that this has had on those students preparing to sit their final examinations. It is recognised that a flexible and agile approach is necessary in light of the continuing fast-moving environment linked to COVID-19.

The planning work underway in respect of the State Examinations in 2021 is being assisted by an Advisory Group of key stakeholders which has met on a number of occasions in recent months. The advisory group has been convened to advise Government on all of the various issues arising in relation to the holding of the 2021 examinations, including public health considerations and appropriate contingency measures.  The advisory group includes representatives of students, parents, teachers, school leadership and management bodies, the State Examinations Commission, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, the Higher Education Authority and the Department of Education, including the National Educational Psychological Service.

At a meeting of the group on 22 January, the Irish Second Level Students’ Union presented its Report on the 2021 State Examinations and Return to School. Following this meeting, the group agreed that there would be an intensive set of engagements in respect of exploring further possible options for the examinations, having regard to the findings of the recent ISSU Report on the 2021 State Examinations.

The sub-group exploring these options has since met on three occasions and has discussed further possible measures that could be taken to address the demands on students preparing for the examinations.  Having regard to the impact of current school closures for face-to-face tuition, there was also discussion on the scope and form of assessment for the various examination components, written and non-written.

All partners are committed to acting in the interests and wellbeing of students, who are at the heart of this process.

A meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Education also took place on 1 February which provided an opportunity for consideration of possible options prior to consideration by Government as a whole.

From Monday 11 January 2021, all students, including Leaving Certificate students, have been engaging in a programme of remote learning with their schools.

The public health restrictions which resulted in the original closure of schools in March 2020 highlighted the absolute necessity for schools to be agile in providing for continuity of schooling in the future. As a contingency measure against the possibility of partial or full school closures, my Department has already provided a suite of guidance materials, agreed with the education partners, to enable schools to mediate the curriculum safely for all pupils/students in a COVID-19 context. These are available at www.gov.ie/backtoschool. This documentation has been complemented by Circular 0074/2020 (Communication/Teaching & Learning Platform) which requires all schools to have in place appropriate contingency measures to ensure that they are prepared to continue to support teaching and learning in the event of a partial or full closure of schools arising from Public Health advice.

Other documents published by my Department to support the return to school include ‘Guidance for Practical Subjects in Post-Primary Schools and Centres for Education’ and ‘Returning to school: Guidance on learning and school programmes for post primary school leaders and teachers’. These documents provide guidance for teachers and schools that is specific to each practical subject area, so that students can be facilitated to actively engage with their learning. All documentation published is available on www.gov.ie/backtoschool.

Special Educational Needs

Questions (359)

Aindrias Moynihan

Question:

359. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Education the measures being considered for children who have developmental language disorder and have lost out on their allotted class time for targeted speech and language service due to Covid-19 restrictions; if consideration will be given to prioritising these children for intensive therapy supports when they finish their school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5049/21]

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Written answers

I was pleased to announce, on 1 February, that a plan has been agreed to allow for the return to in-school learning for children with special educational needs, at school primary level

It has been agreed with relevant education stakeholders to initiate a phased return to in-person learning for children in special schools and children in special classes in mainstream primary schools.

- Children in special schools will return on 50 per cent capacity shared basis from 11 February 

- Children in special classes in mainstream primary schools to return from 22 February

- A scheme to provide for supplementary in-person care and educational support programme is also to commence, from 11 February, for four weeks.

This announcement follows intensive engagement with the trade unions representing teachers and special educational needs assistants, and other relevant stakeholders including parents and school management bodies, to discuss the challenges posed and the supports required to ensure a safe return for this cohort of vulnerable pupils.

On Thursday 11 February, special schools will re-open to pupils. In accordance with this agreement pupils will attend on a 50 per cent basis to allow for attendance of reduced numbers within the school setting. This will be reviewed in line with public health advice.

On Monday 22 February, special classes in mainstream primary schools will re-open to pupils.

Talks will continue this week and in the coming period with stakeholders, including within the post primary school sector, on further phases of return, so that a wider reopening can be delivered for children as soon as possible.

During the period of school closure, remote learning provision will continue to be made available to all pupils in line with each school’s remote learning plan.

Recognising that remote learning is particularly challenging for children with additional needs, the Department of Education is putting in place a supplementary programme to support the education and/or care needs of pupils with complex needs.

An allocation of five hours per week of home-based teaching or care supports will be made available to eligible pupils. This allocation is intended to supplement, and not replace, the remote teaching provided by the pupil’s school and can be provided by a teacher or SNA in a student’s home, at evenings and weekends. Participation in the programme is voluntary for families, teachers and SNAs and must be delivered in accordance with Public Health Advice.

Further information on the in-person supplementary scheme to support the education and care needs of pupils with complex needs is being finalised and will be issued to schools over the coming days. Parents will be advised on the application process, which will be similar to a summer provision scheme, with parents engaging the teacher or SNA directly and the Department arranging payment.

It is intended that this programme would be supported by teachers and SNAs who may opt in to participate, on a paid basis, to help ensure a better learning experience for these pupils and to build on the learning taking place as part of the remote provision. 

 As therapy services are provided to children who require them by the Health Service Executive, questions in relation to the provision of therapy services should be referred to the Department of Health or to the Health Service Executive.

School Closures

Questions (360, 362)

Seán Haughey

Question:

360. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Education if she will consider designating February 2021 as an official school holiday month and extend the academic year by a further month as a response to the current closure of schools due to Covid-19; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5062/21]

View answer

Richard Bruton

Question:

362. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Education if the option to extend the school year has been considered as an alternative to the challenging efforts to deliver remote learning over an extended period of temporary closures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5134/21]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 360 and 362 together.

My Department has provided a suite of guidance materials, agreed with the education partners, to enable schools to facilitate the continuity of learning for all pupils or students in a Covid-19 context. These are available at www.gov.ie/backtoschool.

This involves all teachers including Special Education Teachers, providing remote teaching and learning to all pupils in their class or on their caseload. There are no plans to extend the school year at the present time.

My Department’s ongoing engagement with public health and the education partners is focussing on the safe return of all pupils and students to school at the earliest opportunity, especially for children with special educational needs and supporting the provision of remote learning at this time.

School Funding

Questions (361)

Denise Mitchell

Question:

361. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Education the breakdown of the distribution of the €100 million in grant funding to schools to address their ICT needs during 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5071/21]

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Written answers

As part of the €210m investment programme underpinning the implementation of the Digital Strategy for Schools,  my Department provided €100m in grant funding to schools to address their ICT needs during 2020. Schools were advised that they can use this funding to support the continuity of teaching and learning should a period of partial or full school closure occur arising from Public Health advice owing to Covid-19 restrictions as is the current situation.  Schools can use this funding, inter alia, to acquire software applications or platforms to enable remote learning and communications, and to provide for devices to be loaned to teachers and learners in particular where needed to enable engagement with remote learning.

In 2020, €80m in funding issued to all recognised primary, special and post-primary schools, in respect of pupils and students following primary and post-primary programmes. All eligible schools received a lump sum payment and an  allocation based on a per capita rate determined by the number of qualifying schools and enrolment data. An increased per capita rate is paid in respect of special schools and special classes in mainstream schools, and to DEIS category schools. Post primary schools receive a higher rate that that applied to primary schools in line with the rate of capitation paid, in view of the wider curriculum to be supported. Newly opened schools, or schools who have been provided with a new school building, in the three (calendar) years prior to the grant year, are excluded. New schools and school buildings receive ICT funding as part of their furniture and equipment funding issued by the Planning and Building unit of the Department.

To address the requirements arising from the Covid-19 pandemic, a further €20m issued to all recognised primary and post-primary schools, with no exclusions, as a lump sum based on the school enrolment.

ICT grant circulars have been published to accompany each year of the grant issue, outlining to schools how this funding should be used and gives examples of the kinds of ICT equipment such as the purchase of teaching computers, student shared computers, projectors, networking equipment, cloud based tools, learning platforms, software and education applications, other equipment designed to support the teaching and learning in the school.

Full details regarding the most recent funding including a detailed breakdown on how the funding to school per category are set out in Circular 0077/2020 which is available on the Department’s website at

www.education.ie/en/Circulars-and-Forms/Active-Circulars/cl0077_2020.pdf.

Should the Deputy require further information, the Section responsible for the issue of this funding can be contacted via email to ictpolicy@education.gov.ie.  

Question No. 362 answered with Question No. 360.

School Transport

Questions (363)

Kathleen Funchion

Question:

363. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Education when a person (details supplied) will receive funding under the July provision transport scheme. [5142/21]

View answer

Written answers

School Transport is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education. In the current school year over 113,100 children, including over 14,500 children with special educational needs, are transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country at a cost of over €224.7m in 2020.

The purpose of my Department's School Transport Scheme is, having regard to available resources, to support the transport to and from school of children who reside remote from their nearest school. 

With regard to transport arrangements for the Summer Programme, my Department committed to providing grant funding to support families with the cost of transport arrangements for those children who were eligible for school transport and who were approved to participate in the school based Summer Programme. 

All families who were eligible for transport at that time and who availed of the school based Summer Programme 2020 are entitled to recieve the grant in question. School Transport Section has commenced processing payment to the families for whom payee details have been received. As details for the pupil referred to by the Deputy have not been received in the School Transport Section, contact has been made the school in question with a view to gathering these details and paying the family as soon as possible.

Schools Building Projects

Questions (364, 365)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Question:

364. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Education the progress on the building of a permanent school building for a school (details supplied); the status of the tendering process; and the timeframe for the completion of the build. [5184/21]

View answer

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Question:

365. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Education the costs of providing prefabricated accommodation for a school (details supplied); the length of time she expects the teachers and students to be accommodated in the prefabricated buildings; and the reason there has been a delay in providing a permanent school building for the school. [5185/21]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 364 and 365 together.

The school building project referred to by the Deputy is being delivered under my Department’s Design and Build Programme.  The application for planning permission for the permanent school was lodged in December 2018 and the notification of the Decision to Grant Permission (subject to 18 no. conditions) was received on 13 June 2019. Two of these conditions were subsequently the subject of a first party appeal by my Department to An Bord Pleanála (ABP). The decision on this appeal was received on 4 February 2020.

In early December 2019, the tender notice was published for the first bundle of projects in the first stage of a two stage tender process to establish a new Framework of Design and Build Contractors. It was not possible for the school in question to be included in the first bundle of projects as the decision of ABP was not received until February 2020.

The school is due to be included in the next bundle of projects and it is expected to go to tender in Quarter 2 of 2021. This exact timeframe will be dependent on the completion of phase 2 of the current tender process to establish the Framework of Contractors which is expected to conclude in Quarter 1 of 2021. 

Pending delivery of the permanent building project, my Department will continue to address the interim accommodation needs of the school on its permanent site and the school authorities will be kept informed of progress.

Since 2016, the total spend on the provision of interim accommodation is some €4.5m including some €1.5m of expenditure related to site works for the interim accommodation which will also facilitate the construction of the permanent school building.

School Accommodation

Questions (366)

Michael Fitzmaurice

Question:

366. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Education the number of prefabricated units in situ at primary and post-primary schools in County Roscommon as of 22 January 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5191/21]

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Written answers

As at 22 January 2021, I can confirm to the Deputy that there are 5 pre-fab units in situ at Primary schools and 3 at Post Primary Schools in County Roscommon.

I wish to advise the Deputy that within the context of a rapidly increasing school population, my Department's priority is to ensure that every child will have access to a physical school place.  In this regard, it is sometimes necessary to make use of temporary accommodation in order to meet the accommodation needs of schools. 

Furthermore, it may also be necessary to make use of temporary rented accommodation when an immediate or short term need arises. For example, a school may require a temporary building in circumstances where a major school construction project is planned.  Such temporary accommodation is removed when the major project concerned is completed.  The length of time it is necessary to make use of temporary rented accommodation will vary from project to project.

Education Standards

Questions (367)

Michael Creed

Question:

367. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Education if her Department has established minimum standards of engagement required by schools when home-schooling; if the matter has been the subject of negotiation and dialogue between her and the teaching unions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5234/21]

View answer

Written answers

My Department has provided a suite of guidance materials, agreed with the education partners, to enable schools to facilitate the continuity of learning for all pupils/students in a Covid-19 context. These are available at www.gov.ie/backtoschool.

This involves all teachers including Special Education Teachers, providing remote teaching and learning to all pupils in their class or on their caseload.  There are no plans to extend the school year at the present time.

It is crucially important that the learning of all pupils/students, especially those with special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage and/or early school leaving, are supported at this time.  These supports include teachers engaging with their pupils/students on a regular basis, through a blend of guided and independent learnings tasks and experiences.  Chosen learning tasks provide an opportunity to demonstrate a student’s learning in a clear and concise way.  These learning tasks enable teachers to monitor progress and provide constructive, developmental feedback to support learning.

It is also important that there is two-way feedback between home and school. Teachers are required to ensure that work received is corrected and relevant feedback is provided. Special education teachers should continue to engage with pupils/students and class/subject teachers should differentiate teaching and learning in line with their pupils’/students’ needs to minimise disruption to their learning and progression.

My Department’s ongoing engagement with public health and the education partners is focussing on the safe return of all pupils and students to school at the earliest opportunity, especially for children with special educational needs and supporting the provision of remote learning at this time.

State Examinations

Questions (368)

Holly Cairns

Question:

368. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to a report by a union (details supplied); and her views on the results of the report with particular reference to student opinions on the junior and leaving certificate examinations. [5244/21]

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Written answers

My Department is acutely aware of the challenges faced by students, teachers and families as a result of COVID-19. The pandemic has brought significant challenges to the education system, and I am acutely aware of the impacts that this has had on those students preparing to sit their final examinations. It is recognised that a flexible and agile approach is necessary in light of the continuing fast-moving environment linked to COVID-19.

The planning work underway in respect of the State Examinations in 2021 is being assisted by an Advisory Group of key stakeholders which has met on a number of occasions in recent months. The advisory group has been convened to advise Government on all of the various issues arising in relation to the holding of the 2021 examinations, including public health considerations and appropriate contingency measures.  The advisory group includes representatives of students, parents, teachers, school leadership and management bodies, the State Examinations Commission, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, the Higher Education Authority and the Department of Education, including the National Educational Psychological Service.

At a meeting of the group on 22 January, the Irish Second Level Students’ Union presented its Report on the 2021 State Examinations and Return to School. Following this meeting, the group agreed that there would be an intensive set of engagements in respect of exploring further possible options for the examinations, having regard to the findings of the recent ISSU Report on the 2021 State Examinations.

The sub-group exploring these options has since met on three occasions and has discussed further possible measures that could be taken to address the demands on students preparing for the examinations.  Having regard to the impact of current school closures for face-to-face tuition, there was also discussion on the scope and form of assessment for the various examination components, written and non-written.

All partners are committed to acting in the interests and wellbeing of students, who are at the heart of this process.

A meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Education also took place on 1 February which provided an opportunity for consideration of possible options prior to consideration by Government as a whole.

From Monday 11 January 2021, all students, including Leaving Certificate students, have been engaging in a programme of remote learning with their schools.

The public health restrictions which resulted in the original closure of schools in March 2020 highlighted the absolute necessity for schools to be agile in providing for continuity of schooling in the future. As a contingency measure against the possibility of partial or full school closures, my Department has already provided a suite of guidance materials, agreed with the education partners, to enable schools to mediate the curriculum safely for all pupils/students in a COVID-19 context. These are available at www.gov.ie/backtoschool. This documentation has been complemented by Circular 0074/2020 (Communication/Teaching & Learning Platform) which requires all schools to have in place appropriate contingency measures to ensure that they are prepared to continue to support teaching and learning in the event of a partial or full closure of schools arising from Public Health advice.

Other documents published by my Department to support the return to school include ‘Guidance for Practical Subjects in Post-Primary Schools and Centres for Education’ and ‘Returning to school: Guidance on learning and school programmes for post primary school leaders and teachers’. These documents provide guidance for teachers and schools that is specific to each practical subject area, so that students can be facilitated to actively engage with their learning. All documentation published is available on www.gov.ie/backtoschool.

School Patronage

Questions (369)

Thomas Gould

Question:

369. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Education the status of the negotiations with a trust (details supplied) for land for a school building. [5247/21]

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Written answers

The site acquisition process in respect of the school in question is currently underway.

A potential site option has been identified and discussions are ongoing with the landowner with a view to acquiring this site.

Due to the commercially sensitive nature of site acquisitions generally, it is not possible to comment further at this stage. 

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (370)

Seán Haughey

Question:

370. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Education the criteria which will be used when deciding whether to reopen schools; if the R number and the number of daily Covid-19 cases will be taken into account; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5325/21]

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Written answers

The Government has always been guided by public health advice in relation to the safe operation of schools.  The CMO has stated in his advices to Government which are published on gov.ie, that schools are safe environments, with very little evidence of transmission within schools, and that the majority of infections of children and adolescents occurs outside the school setting.

The decision to delay the reopening of schools was in recognition of the need to reduce societal activity and movement to curb the spread of the virus at a time where there was unprecedented levels of disease transmission in the community. This was not based on a changed assessment of the risks in relation to transmission levels in schools.

Public Health has consistently advised that schools are safe places for both students and staff because of the infection control measures in place in our schools. Public Health have also stated that the new variants of the disease do not change the infection prevention and control measures required in schools. Schools have been supported by a funding package of €450m to put in place and maintain these key measures. Public Health advice is that compliance with these measures ensure that schools remain safe places for children and staff.

My Department has agreed a plan with the relevant education stakeholders for the phased return to in-person learning for children in special schools and children in special classes in mainstream schools. This phased reopening will commence next Thursday 11 February with children in special schools returning on a 50 per cent shared basis from that date.  

My Department’s ongoing engagement with public health and the education partners is focusing on the safe return of all pupils and students to school at the earliest opportunity, especially for children in priority cohorts and supporting the provision of remote learning at this time.

Special Educational Needs

Questions (371)

Robert Troy

Question:

371. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education the actions schools should take in light of the fact that special educational needs organisers, SENOs, are not accepting applications due to a new system being rolled out that is preventing schools planning for September. [5333/21]

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Written answers

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) continues to accept applications by schools for exception reviews of Special Needs Assistant (SNA) allocations and each application will continue to be assessed on a case by case basis.

A core recommendation of the NCSE Review of the SNA scheme concerned a change in the way that SNAs are allocated to mainstram classes in both primary and post primary schools and called for the greater proporion of SNAs in these classes to be allocated on the basis of an educational profile of each school before the commencement of the school year in a similar manner to the allocation of special education teachers (SETs).

The frontloaded allocation model is intended to ensure that SNA posts are in schools and available immediately to students upon their arrival, reducing delays in accessing suppor. It eliminates the need for individual applications and professional assessments in order to access resources and facilitates schools allocating the available resources to those with greatest need.

It had been planned that the frontloaded model of allocation for SNAs would be rolled out to all schools from the commencement of the 2020/21 school year.

However, due to the disruption caused by Covid-19 and the closure of school buildings in March 2020. It was decided that the introuction of the model would be deferred.  This will allow time for the necessary planning and trining for schools.

As an interim step, SNA allocations were frozen at their current levels for 2020/21 with provision for additionality where necessary. Deparment Circular 30/2020 sets out the arrangements for SNA allocations for the 2020/21 school year.

Schools were advised in the first instance to review and reprioritise deployment of all SNAs within mainstram settings and allocate resources on the basis that those with the greatest level of need receive the greatest level of support.

Providing access to SNA support continues to be based on primary care needs as outlined in DES Circular 0030/2014. SNA allocations for special classes and special schools are not affected by this arrangement.

Where schools consider their SNA allocation to be inadequate to meet current needs, a school can seek a review by making an application to the NCSE.

State Examinations

Questions (372)

Claire Kerrane

Question:

372. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 209 of 21 January 2021, when the independent review of the design and implementation of the calculated grades process will be completed; if the review will be published; if she is waiting on the findings of the report before making a decision on calculated grades for 2021 leaving certificate students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5403/21]

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Written answers

As previously noted in response to Question No. 209 of 21 January 2021, on 3 October 2020 I announced that I had asked that a comprehensive independent review of the design and implementation of the Calculated Grades process should take place.

I want this review to consider key aspects of the Calculated Grades process, including the initial decision to adopt the model, whether the process met its objectives, how effective the process was, how the process worked in terms of design and implementation and how effective the governance and oversight procedures were. 

Further steps remain ongoing with regard to the completion of the 2020 Leaving Certificate, which includes the Calculated Grades process. This includes the operation of the appeals process in relation to the postponed written examinations, the results of which issued on 2 February 2021.

In addition, as there is ongoing litigation relating to Calculated Grades, it must be determined how this might impact on progressing with the review. My Department has requested legal advice on a number of aspects of the proposed review, including the possible impact on and of ongoing litigation.

State Examinations

Questions (373)

Patricia Ryan

Question:

373. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Education when recruitment for leaving certificate oral and practical examiners, which usually closes in December, will take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5449/21]

View answer

Written answers

The State Examinations Commission (SEC) has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations. 

In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you. 

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