Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:208 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made on the appointment of an education welfare officer with statutory powers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2815/03]
Written Answers. - Departmental Staff.
The former school attendance officers have transferred to the National Educational Welfare Board and are staff of the board. The board is a statutory body, established under the Education (Welfare) Act, 2000, to implement the provisions of the Act. Discussions between the management and union sides on the terms and conditions of the officers as educational welfare officers in the new service have been under way for some time. A revised formal offer was made to the union representing the staff concerned. The union's response of 17 January and the board's views in this regard of 28 January are under consideration.