Vol. 520 No. 5
73 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, the Government has to tackle the high rate of truancy caused by employers allowing school-going children to work late; the further proposals he has to protect young people in the workforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16115/00]
The Deputy will be aware that the regulation of the employment of young people falls within the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
The Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act, 1996, allows a young person of 15 years or older to work up to eight hours per week during the school year subject to the stipulation that such employment finishes no later than 8 pm. During holiday time 14 and 15 year olds can work up to 35 hours per week providing their employment finishes no later than 8 pm This legislation is monitored by the inspectorate of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
In a buoyant economy the temptation for young people to concentrate on employment to the detriment of their studies inevitably increases and parents, schools and my Department all have a role to play in countering this. Clearly, the influence of parents is paramount in providing the best and most supportive environment for their children.
