Vol. 449 No. 4
111 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Education if she has finalised the new regulations governing eligibility for inclusion in the disadvantaged areas scheme; if so, the contents of these regulations; and when these schools will be notified of the outcome of their applications. [3619/95]
I have commissioned the Combat Poverty Agency to conduct a detailed study of current approaches to the identification and support of pupils in disadvantaged areas.
The criteria used to determine eligibility for inclusion in the disadvantaged areas scheme will be among the maters covered by this study.
I expect to receive a report on the outcome of this study by the middle of this year and this will provide a basis for the development of future approaches in this area.
My Department maintains a record of all applications received seeking disadvantaged area status. In the event of an expansion of the scheme being undertaken, all applicants will be advised as to their position.
