Written Answers Nos. 102-121
112. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Defence if Dún Úi Néill, County Cavan which is a purpose-built barracks, will be re-opened in view of its considerable accommodation and location in the central Border area given his recent comments regarding the need to increase personnel in the Permanent Defence Forces by 3,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25316/22]
View answerThe Commission on the Defence Forces was established on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government and the Government decision in December 2020 which also agreed its terms of reference and membership. The report was published on the 9th February 2022.
The Commission undertook a significant body of work encompassing their wide-ranging terms of reference. The report contains 69 main recommendations and a number of sub recommendations. The Commission's terms of reference included the consideration of appropriate capabilities, structures and staffing for the Army, the Air Corps and the Naval Service.
The Commission's report proposes significant changes for the Defence Forces, including to Defence Forces culture, high-level command and control structures, and for the level of Defence provision in Ireland. Clearly, there are matters that require careful consideration and in some critical aspects inter-departmental discussion. This includes the level of resourcing that may be allocated to Defence, legislative implications and the governance framework that will be required to underpin any changes the Government approve on foot of the Commission's report.
I am also seeking the views of my Department and the Defence Forces. I will also engage with key stakeholders and the Oireachtas, and I welcome the Dáil statements on the report which took place on the 16th February. I firmly believe that this is an opportunity to have a mature debate around the type of defence capabilities that we require and I am very much open to such a discussion. Current events are highlighting the importance of such a debate.
The intent is that following relevant consideration, and before the summer recess, I will revert to Government with a proposed response to the Commission's recommendations and a high-level action plan.
One of the Report's recomendations is that the structure of the Army be reviewed and, in that context, the disposition of Units across the Defence Forces may be considered. As the Deputy will appreciate, it would be inappropriate for me to engage in speculative discussion on this matter prior to completion of the ongoing process, Government approval of any proposed plan of action, and completion of any subsequent reviews that may ensue.
113. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education when a child (details supplied) will receive assistive technology for writing in school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25088/22]
View answerUnder the Assistive Technology scheme, as set out in my Department’s Circular 0010/2013, funding is provided to schools towards the cost of computers and specialist equipment, which are required for educational purposes.
All equipment provided under this scheme supports children with more complex disabilities who, in order to access the school curriculum, require essential specialist equipment.
It must be clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs. Where necessary, schools may also purchase new or additional equipment or software for students from normal school resources or funds. An investment programme of €210m has been delivered to schools under the Digital Strategy for Schools 2015 –2020. Additionally, the first tranche of the successor Digital Strategy for schools to 2027, ICT grant funding of €50m has recently issued to schools. Decisions regarding the use and deployment of digital technology in schools is a matter for the Board of Management of each school, as schools are best placed to determine the most appropriate solution to adopt in terms of supporting the learning needs of their students based on school's own context and circumstances, and in accordance with their Digital Learning Plan. The grant funding allocation issues directly to schools and can be used to provide devices for use by students and teachers, for learning platforms, software and overall digital technology infrastructure development in the school. In addition, my Department as part of Ireland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) under Next Generation EU funding facility, to provide for a scheme for learners at risk of educational disadvantage through the digital divide, issued a once-off grant in December 2021 to recognised primary and post-primary schools in the free education scheme. This funding also issued directly to schools as they are best placed to determine the needs of their own cohort.
Where children with more complex disabilities require essential specialist equipment to access the school curriculum, which they do not already have, or which cannot be provided for them through the schools existing provisions, schools may make an application for such equipment to the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) under the terms of this scheme.
The NCSE through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) is responsible for processing applications from schools for special educational needs supports. SENOs also make recommendations to my Department where assistive technology/specialised equipment is required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in making recommendations for support.
Schools make applications directly to the SENO, providing details of the student’s special educational needs or disability, including details of the approach taken by the school in making relevant interventions.
In order to qualify for equipment under the Assistive Technology Scheme, a student must have been diagnosed with a physical or communicative disability and must also have a recommendation in a professional assessment that the equipment is essential in order to allow the student to access the curriculum.
SENOs will review the application, and professional reports provided in support of same, in order to establish whether the criteria of the scheme have been met. They will then make a recommendation to my Department as to whether or not assistive technology is required; and based on this recommendation, my Department will decide on the level of grant, if any, to be provided.
The type of equipment provided under the Assistive Technology Scheme is varied, and includes audiological supports for students with hearing impairment, braille equipment for children with visual impairment, and computer equipment with associated modified software for students with physical or severe communicative disabilities.
Communication devices or medical or therapy related devices which are not specific educational interventions or equipment specifically required as essential for school educational access, and which have a general application outside of school, are not provided for under the Assistive Technology scheme, however. Such equipment is normally provided for children with disabilities by the Health Service Executive (HSE).
I can confirm that my Department have not received an application for assistive technology under Circular 10/2013 for this student.
114. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Education the expected timelines for both the commencement and duration of construction on the building of a school (details supplied); the alternative accommodation plans that are being put in place while this construction begins; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24990/22]
View answerThe permanent accommodation for the school referred to by the Deputy is being delivered under my Department’s Design and Build Programme which uses a professional external Project Management team to progress the project through the stages of architectural planning, tendering and construction.
It is intended that the project for the school referred to by the Deputy will be included in the next bundle of projects to proceed to tender later this year. It is anticipated that the project will commence on site in early 2023 and will take 70 weeks to complete once construction starts.
My Department continues to liaise with the school's patron body in relation to the school’s interim accommodation needs. It is intended that the school will move to suitable interim accommodation on the permanent site for the 2023/24 school year, pending delivery of the permanent accommodation for the school.
115. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a school (details supplied) is not participating in the Summer Education Programme for Children with Additional Needs given that it is not safe to do so; if she has engaged with the school to provide solutions to these issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24991/22]
View answerEarlier this month, the Government announced the Summer Programme to allow all primary and post-primary schools to offer a summer programme for students with complex special educational needs and those at greatest risk of educational disadvantage.
The total funding available to provide summer programmes this year is up to €40 million.
The programme was developed following extensive engagement with education stakeholders, parent and disability advocacy groups.
The programme aims are to support pupils to maintain their connection with education, to build their confidence and increase their motivation, promote wellbeing and for those who are at key transition stages, helping to ensure they continue their education journey in September either in school or in further/higher education or training.
The programmes on offer this summer include:
- Inclusion Programme (Primary) for all primary schools (2-3 weeks programmes) for mainstream pupils with complex needs and those at greatest risk of educational disadvantage.
- Special Classes and Special School Programme in primary (2-5 weeks programmes).
- DEIS Numeracy and literacy Camps/Campaí Samhraidh in DEIS primary schools (one week per camp)
- Inclusion Programme (Post-Primary) for all post-primary schools (2 weeks) for students with complex needs and those at greatest risk of educational disadvantage
- Home based provision for students with complex needs where no school-based programme is available (4 weeks – 40 hours)
A key objective of this year’s scheme is to increase the number of schools offering the summer programme to their students. Steps have been taken to afford schools as much flexibility as possible, and to ease administrative requirements. This year there is provision to recruit newly qualified teachers graduating this summer as well as undergraduate student teachers who have registered with the Teaching Council under Route 5.
To support and facilitate schools and principals with organising and running the programme, the 2022 Summer Programme allows principals to delegate these functions to other members of staff through the Overseer role and preparation hours. The Overseer and preparation roles provide an exciting personal opportunity for teachers to develop their leadership skills and experience with recognition at a whole-school level.
Enhanced measures have been put in place to encourage participation of schools.
These include
- A Centralised Application Process to reduce admin burden on schools.
- Provision of funding to schools towards preparation and overseeing of the programmes.
- Provision to recruit final year student teachers graduating this summer and Route 5 undergraduate student teachers.
- Guidance, Information and support will be provided to schools to help design and deliver the programmes.
- Earlier payment of school staff will be facilitated
- Capitation Grant Funding will be provided to cover the running costs of the scheme including enhanced capitation for special schools and classes.
Through the National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education (NABMSE) the Department and Inspectorate recently hosted a webinar for special schools and provided a presentation on supports and benefits of running a school based summer programme including the positive outcomes for students that participated in the 2021 programme.
Participation in the scheme is voluntary and is therefore a matter for the Board of Management of a school whether or not it will participate in the programme in any given year. Furthermore, the Department cannot compel schools to participate in the programme.
My Department will continue to work with all stakeholders to support parents in accessing summer provision and with schools to ensure that they have the resources and supports necessary to successfully run these programmes.
116. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Education if a series of matters in relation to the construction of a school (details supplied) will be examined; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24992/22]
View answerThe permanent accommodation for the school referred to by the Deputy is not being delivered by the NDFA. The project is being delivered under my Department’s Design and Build Programme which uses a professional external Project Management team to progress the project through the stages of architectural planning, tendering and construction.
It is intended that the project for the school referred to by the Deputy will be included in the next bundle of projects to proceed to tender later this year. It is anticipated that the project will commence on site in early 2023 and will take 70 weeks to complete once construction starts.
My Department continues to liaise with the school's patron body in relation to the school’s interim accommodation needs. It is intended that the school will move to suitable interim accommodation on the permanent site for the 2023/24 school year, pending delivery of the permanent accommodation for the school.
117. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Education if a school (details supplied) can regain a class teacher; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24993/22]
View answerThe key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September.
For the 2022/23 school year, the staffing schedule for primary schools has been improved by one point and schools will be provided with class teachers on the basis of 1 teacher for every 24 pupils which is a historical low ratio.
The staffing process contains an appeals mechanism for schools to submit a staffing appeal under certain criteria to an independent Primary Staffing Appeals Board. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.
118. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Education if the process of dividing the country into 314 school planning areas is underpinned by either primary or secondary legislation. [25000/22]
View answerThe Education Act requires the Minister for Education, as a function, to plan and co-ordinate the provision of education in recognised schools and to do all such acts and things as may be necessary to further the objects of the Act.
The Act also bestows on the Minister all such powers as are necessary or expedient for the purpose of performing her functions.
It also stipulates that in carrying out her functions, the Minister must have regard to the resources available and the practices and traditions relating to the organisation of existing schools and their right to manage their own affairs in accordance with the Act and any charters, deeds, articles of management or other such instruments relating to their establishment or operation.
As the Deputy is aware, in order to plan for school provision and analyse the relevant demographic data in a way that takes account of the significant local and regional variations in demographic trends and enrolment projections, my Department divides the country into 314 school planning areas.
In most areas, school planning areas were based on traditional school catchment areas where all primary schools were assigned to a post-primary feeder area (typically a population centre or town), containing one or more post-primary schools. The school planning areas were developed for use with the Department’s Geographic Information System (GIS) in 2008 and with the introduction of Small Areas in Census 2011, these areas were amended to align with Census Small Areas. The current school planning areas take account not only of local groupings of schools, but also of natural boundaries, Census Small Areas and other local conditions.
The school planning areas provide a useful means of projecting demographic demand in a localised area or areas, thereby allowing the Department to determine oncoming growth at a relatively localised level to inform recommendations and decisions on where additional school places may be needed. However, there can be a high degree of inward and outward mobility of children between school planning areas, particularly in urban areas, and parents are free to apply to enrol their children in any school, whether that is in the school planning area in which they reside or not.
119. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Education if her Department has contacted South Dublin County Council to acquire land beside a school (details supplied) in order to aid the expansion of the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25021/22]
View answerI can confirm to the Deputy, that my Department is not in receipt of a current application under the Additional School Accommodation (ASA) scheme in respect of the school in question under which the issue referred to by the Deputy could be considered.
The purpose of the ASA scheme is to ensure that essential mainstream classroom and Special Education Needs (SEN) accommodation is available to cater for pupils enrolled each year, where the need cannot be met by the school’s existing accommodation.
My officials were previously in contact with the school authorities in question to assist them in making an application under the ASA scheme. To date no such application has been submitted to my Department
120. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Education the status of the new building for a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25026/22]
View answerThe project for the school referred to by the Deputy is included in my Department’s Construction Programme which is being delivered under the National Development Plan (NDP) as part of Project Ireland 2040 framework.
This major building project will be delivered under my Department's ADAPT Programme. ADAPT is an acronym for the "Accelerated Delivery of Architectural Planning and T endering".
The ADAPT programme uses a professional external Project Manager to co-ordinate and drive the Design Team to achieve the best possible timeframe for the project through the stages of Architectural Planning, to Tender and Construction.
The tender process to appoint a Project Manager was completed last week.
The Project Manager will commence the tender process for the appointment of a Design Team for each of the projects on this ADAPT programme, including this project.
My Department will keep the school authorities informed of the progression of these appointments as they proceed.
121. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Education the plans that her Department has put in place to accommodate students who have yet to be allocated a place for September 2022 while awaiting the building of a new school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25048/22]
View answerThe Department is aware of some local pressures and demand for additional post-primary school places in a number of school planning areas across the country including South Kildare.
However, it is important to note that where enrolment pressures arise, it may not be as a result of lack of accommodation but may be driven by the following factors:
- Duplication of applications – pupils have applied for a place to a number of schools in the area.
- School of choice – pupils can’t get a place in their preferred school while there are places in other schools in the town/area.
- Some towns/areas have single sex schools and while places are available in the school they are not available to all pupils.
- External draw – pupils coming from outside the local area.
My Department is working to establish the true extent of any capacity issues through ongoing discussions with the relevant school authorities/patrons. In that context, similar to the process adopted in advance of the current academic year, the Department is engaging with school patron bodies/school authorities to identify particular capacity requirements for the forthcoming year(s) which may necessitate action including, where required, the provision of modular accommodation solutions.
Following an extensive site identification, assessment and negotiation process, agreement in principle, subject to contract, has been reached for the acquisition, by the Department of Education, of a permanent school site in Kildare Town to provide a replacement school for the Curragh Post Primary School. This site will accommodate 1,000 pupils and will include a 4 classroom special education needs unit. The new school will cater for the increased demographic growth at post-primary level due to occur in the Kildare South region over the coming years, the majority of which is projected to occur in Kildare Town. The location of this 8 acre greenfield site is next to two existing primary schools, Kildare Town Educate Together National School and Gaelscoil Mhic Aodha, within the grounds of the former Magee Barracks, Kildare Town. The development of the post primary school on this site will enhance the education facilities available to the Curragh Post Primary School and the existing primary schools in a new educational campus arrangement.
Due to commercial sensitivities, it is not possible to provide further information at this time.
A number of other building projects in post primary schools in South Kildare are currently underway or being planned, which includes projects at:
- Cross and Passion College, Kilcullen
- Patrician Secondary School, Newbridge
- Ardscoil Rathangan
- St. Conleth’s Community College, Newbridge
- St. Paul’s Secondary School, Monasterevin
- Holy Family Secondary School, Newbridge (application received and currently being examined with information awaited from the school)
My Department is aware that there are currently places available in St. Conleth's Post-Primary School in Newbridge for the 2022/23 school year. My Department's engagement with Patrons/school authorities is ongoing and is focussed on ensuring that the start of the 2022/23 school year operates as smoothly as possible for all schools and their students.
