Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 May 2022
273. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Education her plans to publicly promote the importance of school attendance, especially for primary school children; her plans to support television and radio campaigns to remind parents across each sector in society that every school day matters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21934/22]
View answerMy Department recognises the importance of promoting school attendance and supporting schools to ensure that students attend, participate and are retained in education in order to achieve their potential.
Tusla Education Support Service (TESS) operates under the Education (Welfare) Act, 2000, a piece of legislation that emphasises the promotion of school attendance, participation and retention. TESS has three strands namely the statutory Educational Welfare Service (EWS) and the two school support services the Home School Community Liaison Scheme (HSCL) and the School Completion Programme (SCP). The three TESS strands work together collaboratively with schools, families and other relevant services to achieve the best educational outcomes for children and young people.
The functions of Tusla in respect of school attendance are set out in the Education Welfare Act (2000) and include: to promote and foster, in recognised schools, an environment that encourages children to attend school and participate fully in the life of the school.
My Department works closely with Tusla in respect of Tusla's functions under the Education (Welfare) Act (2000).
