Brian O'Shea
Ceist:528 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has to provide additional funding and staffing for a school (details supplied) in County Waterford. [12409/00]
Written Answers. - School Staffing.
I am aware of the case made by the school in question for additional resources to combat problems of educational disadvantage in its area.
I have set the tackling of educational disadvantage as a priority and will be bringing forward proposals for a major initiative to address the needs of pupils who are encountering educational disadvantage in the primary system.
As a first step in this process, the educational research centre recently issued a comprehensive questionnaire to all primary schools, including the school to which the Deputy refers. The responses from schools, which are now being assessed by the Educational Research Centre, will allow for an accurate identification of levels of disadvantage in every school, including the school in question.
Based on the levels of need identified, my objective is to introduce a range of significant and specifically targeted interventions which will ensure that disadvantaged children will receive the support they require to enable them to succeed in the education system. The interventions in question will take the form of extra teacher support or extra funding, or both, depending on the nature and level of need identified.
I assure the Deputy that the needs of the school to which he refers will be fully considered as part of this process.
I expect to make a further announcement in relation to this matter in the near future.