Jim Higgins
Ceist:149 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education if she will sanction the pre-school class at the Convent of Mercy, Ballina, County Mayo under the new proposed pilot scheme for pre-school classes.
Written Answers. - Pilot Pre-School Project.
I recently announced the establishment of a pilot pre-school project in eight designated areas of disadvantage. I view the establishment of this project as a very innovative and long awaited development in our education system, allowing it to respond to the educational needs of our community.
The areas chosen for this pilot pre-school project are: Churchfield-Knocknaheeney-Farranree, Cork; Southill-Galvone, Limerick; North Clondalkin; South Finglas; Bonnybrook-Darndale-Cromcastle; West Tallaght; Ballybrack-Mountown; Cherry Orchard-Ballyfermot.
All pre-schools in the project will be closely linked with a national school in each designated area and the project is due to commence in September next. The eight pre-schools in the pilot project will each cater for 60 pupils aged between three and four years. Each pre-school centre will be staffed by two qualified primary teachers and two qualified child-care assistants.
When consideration was being given to the selection of centres for this pilot pre-school project, it was decided that the pilot phase would concentrate on large urban areas of greatest disadvantage. It was not possible to include the Convent of Mercy, Ballina, County Mayo in the pilot project at this time. However, the project will be evaluated by the Education Research Centre and will also be closely monitored by the Department's Inspectorate. The needs of the Convent of Mercy will be considered in the context of any further development of the pre-school project.