Vol. 535 No. 1
616 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will assist a school (details supplied) in County Waterford in the provision of education of Traveller children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11625/01]
It is the Government's policy that Traveller children participate in mainstream education in age-appropriate classes and in an integrated setting.
To ensure that this policy translates into practice, my Department provides a range of supports. Capitation grants at enhanced rates are paid in respect of Traveller pupils in post-primary schools and my Department also sanctions additional teaching hours in respect of Traveller pupils enrolled in post-primary schools.
My Department employs a national education officer for Travellers and provides a visiting teacher service for Travellers. The visiting teachers provide advice and support to schools and to Traveller families. This service is now provided on a nationwide basis.
An application for increased resources, which has been received recently from the school concerned, is being considered by my Department. The school authorities and the Deputy will be notified of the outcome in due course.
