Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 12 Feb 1998

Vol. 487 No. 2

Written Answers. - Teaching Counsellor Scheme.

Joe Higgins

Ceist:

93 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department has considered the request by St. Philip's senior national school, Mountview, Clonsilla, Dublin 15 for a resource counsellor; and if he will make provision for this in view of the urgent needs of this school and the community it serves. [3668/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I am aware of the case made by the school in question for the appointment of a teaching counsellor.

The teaching counsellor scheme is operating on a limited pilot basis in the North Inner City and Clondalkin areas of Dublin. The operation of the pilot phase of the scheme is being closely monitored by my Department's inspectorate. A detailed evaluation of the scheme is under way. I expect to receive the outcome of this evaluation before the end of the school year.

The question of any further expansion of the scheme will be considered following completion of the evaluation. I can assure the Deputy that the needs of the school in question will be considered in the event of any expansion of the scheme being undertaken.