Liam Burke
Ceist:44 Mr. L. Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science whether he has satisfied himself that guidance counsellors are up to speed in changing career options; and the steps, if any, he has to ensure this. [21724/97]
Written Answers. - Career Guidance.
I am aware that the rapid rate of change in the economy and the labour market has important implications for career guidance. There is a need for current information on career options to be readily available to guidance counsellors. This information must be updated frequently.
The National Centre for Guidance in Education (NCGE) has been established by my Department in order to provide the support needed by guidance practitioners. Its functions include the preparation, publication and dissemination of careers materials. The NCGE regularly issues newsletters to all guidance counsellors which include information about the latest trends and resources.
In early 1997, the national centre published the report on the survey, Careers Information Materials in Irish Schools. The recommendations in this report have led to the formulation of a detailed action plan by the management committee of NCGE. This plan is currently being implemented.
I recognise the potential of information and communications technology to enable speedy updating and dissemination of information on careers. Following the EU conference, Guidance in the Information Society, which was held in Dublin in 1996, the NCGE has produced a hand-book Supporting Career Guidance in the Information Society. This includes comprehensive lists of the existing computer assisted software and relevant Internet websites for guidance. This handbook has been published and made available to all guidance counsellors.