Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 March 2004
240 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reconsider the decision to stop the central funding of the school chaplains’ association in view of the unique nature of the service given by chaplains which does not fall not into the general category of services which might normally be supplied through local teacher centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7478/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has reviewed the processes whereby it supports a range of in-service activities for personnel working in schools at primary and post-primary levels. This was undertaken in the context of reorienting support from a centralised system to one of local delivery based on local requirements and needs through the established national network of education centres. To rationalise matters and to make the best use of available resources, direct support to schools and other bodies and groups, including the school chaplains' association, is no longer available directly from my Department. Therefore, schools and others are advised to contact their local education centre whose role it is to provide local in-service and support, advice and assistance to schools and their personnel in these matters. This approach will help avoid duplication and make the best use of available resources.
