Ulick Burke
Ceist:88 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress, if any, he has made in the past 12 months in upgrading science facilities in second level schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3340/00]
Written Answers. - Physical Sciences Initiative.
The upgrading of science facilities in second level schools is an important part of the physical sciences initiative, launched in March 1999 and currently being implemented by my Department.
Since then a survey of the existing provision in school laboratories has been carried out to establish the level of resources required and to provide a basis for allocating additional resources to schools. An analysis of the data obtained from this survey is ongoing. When it is complete resources will be allocated to address identified needs in bringing the basic level of facilities in all our school laboratories up to an acceptable standard.
Proposals are being drawn up to provide a PC, printer and relevant software to each school specifically for use in the teaching of the sciences.
A special additional per capita grant of £10 for each pupil studying the physical science subjects at leaving certificate has been paid in 1999. This grant is intended for the purchase and maintenance of basic equipment and henceforth will be paid on an annual basis.
I am confident that these measures will result in a significant improvement in the level of laboratory facilities in our schools.