Tuesday, 25 Feb 2014

Written Answers Nos. 137-161

Third Level Fees

Ceisteanna (137)

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

137. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the future of third level fees here; and if there will be any further support schemes, such as the student assistance fund, introduced for students attending third level institutions who are experiencing financial difficulty. [8913/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

Under my Department's Free Fee Schemes the Exchequer meets the cost of tuition fees in respect of eligible full-time undergraduate students. Support is also available to eligible students under the Student Grant Scheme which may include maintenance, fees and student contribution. Funding is also provided to institutions for the Student Assistance Fund which assists students, who might otherwise, due to financial circumstances, be unable to continue their studies.

The Higher Education Authority, at my request, is undertaking a study on the future financing of the sector. An initial report was published which makes it clear that immediate work is required to prepare for a longer term approach towards a system that can be maintained through a sustainable funding base which will be able to address the continual expansion of the sector while protecting quality of education. This study is continuing and I will continue to be appraised as it progresses.

Question No. 138 answered with Question No. 105.

Question No. 139 answered with Question No. 125.

Question No. 140 answered with Question No. 121.

Third Level Staff Recruitment

Ceisteanna (141)

Jonathan O'Brien

Ceist:

141. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to address the staffing shortage in the third level sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9164/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

The reality of the economic situation and the public expenditure corrections which continue to be required present challenges across all areas of public expenditure. It must be acknowledged that the higher education sector has accommodated significant increases in students numbers at a time when both funding and staff numbers have reduced. The economic circumstances of the country are such that the staffing moratorium introduced across the public sector by the previous Government in 2009 has to be maintained. In contrast to other parts of the public service the higher education sector has been given significant latitude within this moratorium relative to other areas of public expenditure. An Employment Control Framework is in place for the higher education sector which provides institutions with considerable flexibility to fill vacancies, through recruitment or promotions on the basis of meeting an overall ceiling of posts.

Straitéis 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge

Ceisteanna (142)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

142. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Oideachais agus Scileanna cad iad na beartais sa Straitéis Fiche Bliain don Ghaeilge a bhaineann lena Roinn atá curtha i bhfeidhm go dtí seo, agus na beartais a bhfuil sé i gceist iad a chur i bhfeidhm; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [8906/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

Tá mo Roinnse lán-tiomanta d'fhorfheidhmiú na Straitéise 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge. Go nuige seo, tá mo Roinnse tar éis díriú ar bhearta oideachasúla sa Straitéis 20 Bliain a cur i gcrích a bhaineann leis an gcuraclam, le measúnú agus le hoideachas múinteoirí. Mar shampla, tá obair a rinne an Chomhairle Náisiúnta Curaclaim agus Measúnachta maidir le forbairt curaclaim nua chomhtháite teanga don Bhéarla agus don Ghaeilge ag an mbunleibhéal curtha chun cinn go maith. Beidh an curaclam seo le fáil ó na naíonáin suas go dtí an dara rang i mí Mheán Fómhair 2014. Tá tús curtha chomh maith le forbairt sonraíochta nua don Ghaeilge ag an tSraith Shóisearach.

Tá miontuairisc ar fheidhmiú na mbeart oideachais sa Straitéis 20 Bliain ar fáil ar shuíomh greasáin na Roinne http://www.education.ie/ga/Foilseacháin/Tuarascálacha-Beartais/Straitéis-20-Bliain-don-Ghaeilge-2010-2030.pdf

School Accommodation

Ceisteanna (143)

Patrick O'Donovan

Ceist:

143. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the level of consideration that is given to health and safety constraints that exist in schools who apply for funding for remedial works to be carried out; the mechanism in place for schools to submit risk assessments and health and safety statements as part of their application process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9099/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

I wish to advise the Deputy that schools have a responsibility under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, to have a Safety Statement in place in their schools. The Statement should identify potential hazards, assess the risks to health and safety and put appropriate provision in place to safeguard the safety and health of employees and pupils. The Safety Statement should be reviewed on a regular basis.

In the case of schools where remedial works are identified, it is open to such schools to utilise their capitation grants or minor works grant in the case of primary schools to undertake such works. Where schools have issues of an emergency nature, it is open to the schools to submit an application for funding to my Department under the Emergency Works Scheme. Details of the criteria associated with the scheme together with an application form may be accessed on my Department's website www.education.ie. My Department would request that a technical report and supporting evidence relating to the issues concerned and outlining the works required should accompany any submission.

Child and Family Agency Remit

Ceisteanna (144)

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

144. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will report on the transfer of the National Education and Welfare Board from his Department to the Child and Family Agency; and to indicate the role his Department will continue to have in monitoring school attendance figures. [8914/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

The National Education Welfare Board (Transfer of Departmental Administration and Ministerial Functions) Order 2011 (SI No. 215 of 2011) made by the Government on 10th May 2011 transferred a range of functions under the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, to the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. These functions included statutory powers relating to school attendance, participation and retention, the NEWB itself and its support services of Educational Welfare, Home School Community Liaison and School Completion. On the commencement of the Child and Family Agency Act 2013 on 1st January, 2014, the NEWB became part of the Child and Family Agency and now operates as the Educational Welfare Services of that Agency. Given the particular remit of the Child and Family Agency in relation to educational welfare, my Department continues to work directly with its Educational Welfare Services in order to support and consolidate the work of schools, in ensuring that children's participation in the educational system is maximised.

State Examinations Reviews

Ceisteanna (145)

Thomas Pringle

Ceist:

145. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Skills the way he is to address the concerns of the TUI and ASTI regarding the junior cycle student award ahead of balloting their members on industrial action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9157/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

I regret the announcement by the ASTI and TUI of the fact that they are balloting their members on industrial action on the new Junior Cycle Student Award (JCSA). I have considered the concerns expressed by the unions and others in relation to the new JCSA. In that context, I have responded to their concerns in relation to the implementation of the Framework on Junior Cycle. I have slowed down the pace of implementation and provided additional professional development opportunities for teachers and school leaders. I hope that the teachers, through their unions, will use the National Working Group for Junior Cycle, which I set up, as the forum to proactively address identified challenges as they arise over the phased implementation time schedule that is the Junior Cycle. I am expecting a report from this Group in May.

Third Level Funding

Ceisteanna (146)

Jonathan O'Brien

Ceist:

146. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the date on which he will receive the Higher Education Authority report on funding third level education. [9215/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

As the Deputy is aware the Higher Education Authority (HEA) is undertaking a study on the future financing of the higher education sector. This study was initiated at my request and an initial report has been published which makes it clear that immediate work is required to prepare for a longer term approach to a system that can be maintained through a sustainable funding base which will be able to address the continual expansion of the sector while protecting the quality of education. The HEA is continuing its work which will help inform future decision making and I will continue to be appraised as the study progresses. The report is expected to be completed by the end of the year, however it is not possible to give a precise date at this time.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio

Ceisteanna (147)

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

147. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide an assessment of the impact that changes to pupil-teacher ratios is having on class numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8909/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

The staffing schedule is the mechanism used for allocating mainstream teaching posts to all schools. It operates in a clear and transparent manner and treats all similar types of schools equally irrespective of location. It currently operates on the basis of a general average of 1 classroom teacher for every 28 pupils with lower thresholds for DEIS Band 1 schools. The configuration of classes and the deployment of classroom teachers are done at local school level. My Department publishes annual statistics on class size data for each school. The most recent statistics are for the 2012/13 school year. The national average class size at primary level is 24.7 pupils. However, with over 20,800 classes in over 3,100 primary schools throughout the country there will always be variations in class sizes at individual school level. My Department's guidance to local school management is that such variations should be kept to the minimum.

The Deputy will be aware that as part of the Budget 2012 decisions, there is a phased increase in the number of pupils required to gain and retain a classroom teaching post in small primary schools with four teachers or less. The first phase of the budget measure took effect from September 2012. The final phase of the budget measure takes effect from September 2014. A total of 122 schools were due to lose a classroom teacher (73 in the 2012/13 school year and 49 in the 2013/14 school year) as a result of the implementation of this budget measure. The appeals process reduced these losses to 43 in the 2012/13 school year and 32 in the 2013/14 school year. A total of 53 schools were due not to gain a classroom teacher (21 in 2012/13 and 32 in the 2013/14 school year). The appeals process reduced this figure to 42 schools. The list of these schools is below.

The allocation process for the 2014/15 school year is currently underway. Early indications are that 34 primary schools are due to lose a classroom teacher for the 2014/15 school year and 6 primary schools will not gain a classroom teacher as a consequence of the implementation of the final phase of the Budget 2012 measure. These figures are preliminary at this stage and would be expected to reduce following the appeals process. The final position will be known in the Autumn.

Schools That Lost A Post in 2012/13 School Year

County	Roll No	School Name	Outcome
Carlow	17174E	S N Bhrighde, Cuan, Carlow, Co Carlow	Successful Appeal
Cavan	06998Q	St Patrick'S Ns, Corlough, Belturbet Post Office, Co Leitrim, Via Co Cavan
Cavan	12099O	Billis N S, New Inn, Ballyjamesduff, Co Cavan	Successful Appeal
Cavan	17630E	S N Maodhog, Cnoc Brighde, Bailieboro, Co Cavan
Clare	17633K	S N Eoin Baiste, Ballyvaughan, Via Galway, Co Clare
Cork	05636A	Dunmanway Model N S, Dunmanway, Co Cork	Successful Appeal
Cork	17079K	S N Carraig An Ime, Macroom, Co Cork	Successful Appeal
Cork	17281F	Togher N S, Dunmanway, Co Cork
Cork	17533G	S N Rathain, Mallow, Co Cork
Cork	18549D	S N Cnoc Na Croighe, Cnoc Na Groighe, Mallow, Co Cork
Cork	19978I	Maulatrahane Central Ns, Leap, Skibbereen, Co Cork
Donegal	14631O	Scoil Cholmchille, Malin, Lifford, Co Donegal	Successful Appeal
Donegal	16384K	Sn Arainn Mhor Ii, Arainn Mhor, Co Dhun Na Ngall
Donegal	16819T	S N Gort An Choirce, Leitir Ceanainn, Co Dhun Na Ngall
Donegal	16829W	S N Loch An Iubhair, Anagaire, Leitir Ceanainn, Tir Chonaill
Donegal	18219F	Sn Chonaill, Machaire Chlochair, Bun Beag, Co Dhun Na Ngall
Donegal	18251B	Ayr Hill N S Ramelton, Ramelton, Letterkenny, Co Donegal	Successful Appeal
Donegal	18286U	S N Na Hacrai, Ailt An Chorrain, Leitirceanainn, Co Dhun Na Ngall	Successful Appeal
Donegal	19252I	S N Umlach, Carrigart, Co Donegal	Successful Appeal
Donegal	20144M	Gaelscoil Chois Feabhaill, Gaa, Bun An Phobail, Co Dhun Na Ngall
Dublin	18642Q	S N Naomh Eoin, Tower Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22	Successful Appeal
Galway	10591I	S N An Ard Mhoir, Carna, Conamara, Co Na Gaillimhe
Galway	10763L	Boston N S, Tubber, Gort, Co Galway	Successful Appeal
Galway	11261P	Scoil Mhuire, An Tuairin, Beal An Daingin, Co Na Gaillimhe	Successful Appeal
Galway	14377D	S N Cill Conaill, Cill Conaill, Beal Atha Na Sluagh, Co Na Gaillimhe	Successful Appeal
Galway	17760R	S N Baile An Leasa, Dunmore, Tuam, Co Galway
Galway	17922R	Cloghans Hill N S, Tuam, Co Galway	Successful Appeal
Galway	18113M	S N Cill Solain, Killasolan, Caltra, Ballinasloe, Co Galway
Galway	18289D	Scoil Naomh Iosef, Castlehackett, Belclare Tuam, Co Galway	Successful Appeal
Galway	19283T	Ballymacward Central Sc, Ballymacward Central Sc, Ballinasloe, Co Galway
Kerry	09938N	Curranes N S, Castleisland, Co Kerry	Successful Appeal
Kerry	18233W	Scoil Paroisteach, Tralee, Co Kerry
Kerry	18756I	Fibough National School, Caislean Na Mainge, Co Chiarrai
Kerry	19492F	Sn Oilibhear Naofa, Beal Ata Longphuirt, Co Chiarrai
Kerry	19986H	S N Eoin Baiste, Garrai Na Dtor, Liospoil, Co Chiarrai	Successful Appeal
Kildare	17557U	Scoil Abbain Cillin, Maganey, Athy, Co Kildare	Successful Appeal
Kilkenny	14476F	Wandesforde Mixed N S, Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny
Laois	18075H	Rathdomhnaigh N S, Rathdowney, Co Laois
Leitrim	17558W	S N Rosan, Carrigallen, Co. Leitrim
Limerick	17364J	Scoil Baile An Aird, Baile An Aird, Kilmallock, Co Limerick	Successful Appeal
Limerick	17981K	S N Gleann Na Gcreabhar, Gleann Na Gcreabhar, Cill Mocheallog, Co Luimni	Successful Appeal
Limerick	20233L	Scoil Chaitríona, Cappamore, Co Limerick
Longford	12136R	Scoil Bhríde, Glen, Edgeworthstown, Co Longford
Longford	12736S	Naomh Guasachta N S, Bunlahy, Ballinalee, Co Longford	Successful Appeal
Longford	14300O	Killasonna Mixed N S, Killasonna, Granard, Co Longford
Longford	17724N	Ballycloghan NS, Ballycloghan, Co. Longford
Mayo	14205U	S N Mainistir Muigheo, Claremorris, Co Mayo	Successful Appeal
Mayo	14923E	Keenagh N S, Keenaghbeg P O, Beal Atha An Fheadha, Co Mayo
Mayo	15007V	Partry N S, Claremorris, Co Mayo
Mayo	16295L	Sn An Chorrain, Gob A Choire, Co Mhaigh Eo
Offaly	15638K	Edenderry 2 N S, Edenderry, Co Offaly
Roscommon	07455G	Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal, Ballygar, Co Roscommon	Successful Appeal
Roscommon	13757I	Tarmon N S, Castlerea, Co Roscommon	Successful Appeal
Roscommon	14966W	Kilteevan N S, Roscommon, Co Roscommon
Roscommon	15217J	Ardkeerin N S, Riverstown, Boyle, Co Roscommon	Successful Appeal
Roscommon	15543W	Tibohine N S, Castlerea, Roscommon
Roscommon	17904P	S N Brusna, Brusna, Bealach A Doirin, Co Roscommon
Roscommon	18005J	Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal, Fiobhach Diseart, Beal Atha Na Sluaighe, Co Roscomain
Roscommon	18061T	Scoil Mhuire, Ballyleague, Lanesboro Po, Co Roscommon
Sligo	18029A	S N Muire Gan Smal, Druimeanna, Tubbercurry, Co Sligo	Successful Appeal
Sligo	19688W	Dromore West Central, Dromore West, Sligo
Tipperary	00590A	Borrisoleigh B N S, Borrisoleigh, Co Tipperary	Successful Appeal
Tipperary	09967U	Upper Newtown N S, Upper Newtown, Carrick On Suir, Co Tipperary
Tipperary	17640H	S N Colmain Naofa, Tir Da Glas, Nenagh, Co Tipperary
Tipperary	18322V	S N An Droma, Thurles, Co Tipperary
Tipperary	19540N	Clogheen Central N S, Clogheen, Co Tipperary	Successful Appeal
Tipperary	19640R	Scoil Mhuire, Lismackin, Roscrea, Co Tipperary	Successful Appeal
Westmeath	01731U	Ballynacargy Mixed N S, Ballynacargy, Co Westmeath
Westmeath	17054R	S N Ard Cianain, Druim, Athlone, Co Westmeath	Successful Appeal
Westmeath	18764H	Ard Na Gcraith N S, Ard Na Gcraith, Walderstown, Athlone, Co Westmeath
Wexford	15883A	Killegney NS, Clonroche, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford
Wexford	17117P	S N Cul Greine, Coolgreany, Gorey, Co Wexford	Successful Appeal
Wicklow	14829M	Redcross 1 N S, Redcross, Co Wicklow

Schools That Did Not Gain A Post in 2013/14 School Year

County	Roll No	School Name	Outcome
Clare	18565B	S N Ma Sheasta, Moyasta, Co Clare
Cork	06295F	Freemount Mixed N S, Rathluirc, Co Cork	Successful Appeal
Cork	10724B	South Abbey Ns, Youghal, Co Cork	Successful Appeal
Cork	14726C	Kinsale N S, Kinsale, Co Cork
Cork	16876I	S N Caipin, Iniscein, Co Chorcai
Cork	16901E	S N Padraig Naofa N B, Skibbereen, Co Cork
Cork	16955E	S N Na Mona Fliche, Macroom, Co Cork	Successful Appeal
Donegal	16903I	S N Fothar, Port Na Blaithche, Leitir Ceanainn, Co Dun Na Ngall
Donegal	17130H	Scoil Naomh Dubhthach, Machaire Ui Rabhartaigh, Gort A Choirce, Leitir Ceanainn, Co Dhun Na Ngall
Donegal	18007N	S N Olibhear Pluinceid, Rann Na Feirste, Anagaire, Co Dhun Na Ngall	Successful Appeal
Donegal	18517N	Scoil Mhuire, Dristearnain, Gleneely Po Lifford, Co Donegal	Successful Appeal
Donegal	18844F	Scoil Mhuire, Belcruit, Kincasslagh, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal
Galway	13621G	S N Muire, Letterfrack, Co Galway
Galway	15900U	The Glebe N.S., Aughrim, Ballinasloe, Co Galway
Galway	16121B	Attymon N S, Attymon, Athenry, Co Galway
Kerry	12701W	Scoil An Fhaill Mor, Caherciveen, Co Kerry
Laois	18203N	Cul An Tsudaire N S, Cul An Tsudaire, Portarlington, Co Laois	Successful Appeal
Leitrim	20260O	Gaelscoil Chluainín, Sráid An Chaisleáin, Cluainín Uí Ruairc, Co. Liatroma	Successful Appeal
Limerick	04469C	S N Fiodhnach, Killmallock, Co Limerick
Longford	14300O	Killasonna Mixed N S, Killasonna, Granard, Co Longford
Mayo	07374G	Ballintubber N S, Claremorris, Co Mayo
Mayo	14923E	Keenagh N S, Keenaghbeg P O, Beal Atha An Fheadha, Co Mayo
Mayo	17682A	S N Colm Naofa, Coggale, Westport, Co Mayo
Meath	17029S	S N Naomh Cianain, Cushenstown, Ashbourne, Co Meath
Roscommon	15543W	Tibohine N S, Castlerea, Roscommon
Roscommon	18005J	Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal, Fiobhach Diseart, Beal Atha Na Sluaighe, Co Roscomain
Tipperary	09967U	Upper Newtown N S, Upper Newtown, Carrick On Suir, Co Tipperary	Successful Appeal
Tipperary	18322V	S N An Droma, Thurles, Co Tipperary	Successful Appeal
Waterford	17570M	S N Na Bhfiodh, Cill Mhic Thomais, Co Waterford
Waterford	18257N	S N Baile An Fhasaigh, Ballyfacey, Glenmore, Co Waterford
Wexford	15940J	Tombrack N S, Tombrack, Ferns, Co Wexford
Wicklow	18470N	Naomh Brid N S, Cnoc An Eanaigh, Ballinglen, Co Wicklow

Schools Amalgamation

Ceisteanna (148)

Billy Kelleher

Ceist:

148. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason two primary schools (details supplied) in County Cork are being proposed for amalgamation despite the overwhelming opposition of parents of children at both schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9089/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

I am aware that a consultation process is underway in Cork City relating to amalgamation proposals that involve the schools, referred to by the Deputy. However, I wish to confirm that I have not received any proposals in the matter from the Patron concerned. The Deputy will be aware that the decision making authority for any amalgamation or re-organisation of schools in an area belongs to the patron of the schools concerned subject to the approval of the Minister for Education and Skills. The initiative for any amalgamation or re-organisation may come from a variety of sources, such as parents, staff, Boards of Management and patron(s). Any such proposal to amalgamate schools must involve consultation with all of the relevant stakeholders and follow decisions taken at local level. Any proposed changes must be planned and managed in a manner that accommodates the interests of parents, teachers and local communities and contributes to an inclusive education system.

Third Level Participation

Ceisteanna (149)

Colm Keaveney

Ceist:

149. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Skills the action he will take to ensure a greater participation by persons with disabilities in third level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8968/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

My Department allocates significant resources to ensure that students can participate fully in their academic programmes and are not disadvantaged by reason of a disability. The Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD) provides funding to both further and higher education institutions for the provision of services and supports for full-time students with disabilities. A claim under the Fund is made on behalf of an eligible student by their college following an assessment of need. Applications cannot be made directly to the Fund by students. Colleges are also responsible for the management of the funding approved for eligible students. The Fund for Students with Disabilities is managed by the HEA on behalf of my Department.

In addition the Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) is a college and university admissions scheme which offers places at reduced points to school leavers with disabilities. Eighteen higher education institutions are currently participating in the scheme. An application for a place through this scheme is made to the Central Applications Office (www.cao.ie). For further information on DARE see also www.accesscollege.ie. Core funding for access programmes is allocated each year as part of the overall budget of each designated higher education institution. This funding supports the provision of dedicated staff, services and supports for students with disabilities as well as for mature students and school-leavers from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Every further and higher education institution has at least one member of staff with responsibility for liaising with students with disabilities, as required by the Disability Act 2005. In addition many institutions have a dedicated Disability Support Service with trained disability officers, learning support officers and other specialist staff. The National Plan for Equity of Access to Higher Education (2014-2016) is currently being finalised by the National Access Office for my Department. The new plan will include actions and targets that ensure there is continued support for people with disabilities in accessing and participating in higher education.

Schools Building Projects Administration

Ceisteanna (150)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

150. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his Department proposes to re-evaluate the school building programme on the basis of emerging school place requirements arising from unprecedented population growth; the extent to which such demographic requirements are likely to require an augmentation of the building programme in the short term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9167/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

Generally, the delivery of major school projects to meet significant demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The Five Year Plan is focused on meeting those demographic needs and sets out the school projects that are planned to proceed to construction over the duration of the Plan. My Department will also consider applications from schools for funding for additional classrooms where an immediate enrolment need is arising. As part of the Five Year School Plan, some 40 new schools are to be established across the country to cater for increasing demographics. Many of these schools have already commenced operation and the remainder will commence operation between now and 2016. My Department continues to analyse demographic trends and to monitor enrolments in all areas to determine the level of additional school provision which will be required into the future and to ensure that this is provided in a timely manner.

Education Grants

Ceisteanna (151)

Clare Daly

Ceist:

151. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Education and Skills in view of the high enrolment figures, if he will sanction a devolved grant for a school (details supplied) in County Dublin to enable them to immediately provide a permanent extra classroom and to change the school to band rating 1 for an extension in view of the appalling condition of the existing prefabs. [8915/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

My Department is aware of the accommodation issues arising at the school, referred to by the Deputy. In that regard, my Department is currently liaising with the school, in question, regarding how best to meet their long term accommodation needs, including the replacement of prefabs. In the interim, my Department has approved additional accommodation for the school to meet its short-term accommodation requirements.

Information and Communications Technology

Ceisteanna (152)

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

152. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Skills with regard to the significantly increased emphasis on active learning, collection of student work in portfolios, and use of ICT to support aspects of school-based assessment in the new Junior Framework, his proposals to upgrade the ICT infrastructure in schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9150/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

ICT is a tool that can, if used properly, enhance teaching and learning. In particular the use of eportfolios can facilitate assessment. My Department is exploring the use of eportfolios though its participation in an EU funded project which will pilot eportfolios solutions in a number of schools. My Department's Professional Development Support Service for Teachers - Technology in Education provides guidance and CPD for teachers on the use of ICT for teaching and learning.

Work has commenced in my Department on the development of a new digital strategy for schools which will consider a range of topics. As well as infrastructure requirements a broad range of themes will be considered when developing the new strategy such as:

- The impact of ICT in teaching and learning and assessment

-School-wide planning for integration of ICT in teaching and learning

-Continuing ICT related Professional Development (CPD) for teachers

-Curriculum-relevant digital content and software resources-exploring views on the opportunities presented by integration of ICT in teaching, learning and assessment, and

-Obstacles to ICT integration and how they could be overcome.

The new digital strategy for schools will be completed during 2014, and will set out how resources, policies and projects can be prioritised and organised throughout the school system for the next five years.

Special Educational Needs Service Provision

Ceisteanna (153)

Mick Wallace

Ceist:

153. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to written correspondence of 24 January 2014 if he has received any advice on whether the use of isolation rooms is a breach of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which Ireland is expected to ratify in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9161/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

I wish to advise the Deputy that many schools withdraw pupils occasionally from the main classroom for short periods of time in order to provide support to them, or to manage pupil behaviour, if a child is exhibiting behaviours which may be a danger to themselves or others. In some circumstances, a child who is exhibiting extreme behaviours may be brought to another room to ensure the safety of other pupils and until they are calm again.

Such rooms or spaces may not be officially designated as 'withdrawal' rooms, e.g. schools may use existing classrooms or other spaces within the school. This is a normal facet of the management of pupil behaviour. Where used, it will normally form part of a school's response to behaviour and part of student support structures, procedures and practices.

Some special schools for pupils with severe emotional behavioural disorders, or Autism, where there are a greater number of pupils likely to exhibit distressed behaviour, may use a room which is designated as a safe space for withdrawal purposes, in order to ensure pupil safety and to prevent self-harm or harm to other pupils.

These rooms are variously described as 'withdrawal rooms', 'time-out rooms', or 'safe spaces'. I am not aware of any schools who use the term 'isolation rooms'.In all cases where such a room is used the child should be under continuous supervision. In circumstances where special schools use designated time out procedures that they should do so with the consent of parents and the school Board of Management.

Where a parent, or any other person, has concerns about the care or safety of a child in school they should report these concerns to the Board of Management of the school in the first instance. Where a parent or other person has a concern about the welfare or protection of a child in a school they may report the matter as a child protection concern to the HSE or to the Department of Education and Skills who will then report any child protection complaint in accordance with my Departments procedures. I have not received specific advice on whether the use of 'isolation' rooms is a breach of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. However, my Department has asked the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) to prepare Policy Advice on Educational Provision for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. In developing this policy advice, the NCSE will consult widely with parents, professionals and other stakeholders and interested parties while also conducting research in relation to this area. As part of the process to develop this policy advice, the NCSE will consider the issue of the use of withdrawal in schools for children with autism and advise my Department in relation to this matter.

Education Schemes

Ceisteanna (154)

Mattie McGrath

Ceist:

154. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 218 of 11 February 2014, if he will further elaborate on the way the denial of funding to some book rental schemes can be considered fair or reasonable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9097/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

The Department will continue to provide a book grant as usual to all primary schools. This grant, can be utilised for the purposes of updating or expanding a school's existing book rental scheme. I want to commend all schools that have used it to help build up book rental schemes over the years and I am aware of the difficulties faced by schools in relation to these schemes. Their efforts mean that the high costs of school books is being significantly reduced for parents.

At my request, the National Parents' Council surveyed the views of their members in relation to currently operating book rental schemes. Parents have reported that where book rental schemes operate, they are open to all parents in 95% of cases, and that the cost per child is under €40 per year in a considerable majority of schools. Perhaps most tellingly, the survey has found that 93% of parents believe that book rental schemes help with the costs of educating a child. Ensuring that book rental schemes are available to all parents must therefore clearly be our aim.

I understand that it feels unfair to those schools who have invested time and money to establish such schemes, that they now cannot benefit from the additional funding which was secured as part of the Budget. Of course it is unfair, but equally, the status quo was deeply unfair on many parents and I am not currently in a position to re-examine the scheme. I again wish to re-iterate that the parents who had no access whatsoever to book rental schemes needed more support. With the limited funding available, I believe that targeting this funding - to make sure that every parent in Ireland has access to some level of a book rental scheme - was the greatest good that could be achieved. The Department is contacting primary schools that do not currently operate a book rental scheme to advise them of the application process.

Third Level Fees

Ceisteanna (155)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Ceist:

155. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has examined the likely impact on the imposition of fees for apprentices in view of the Government's stated aim of prioritising training and education in order to reduce unemployment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9149/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

The Annual Student Contribution is levied on apprentices and students attending Institutes of Technology. This contribution has been levied by Institutes of Technology in respect of apprentices since 2004, with FÁS/SOLAS paying 70% of the contribution and apprentices themselves paying the remainder. As part of Budget 2014, SOLAS will cease making this payment to the Institutes of Technology and apprentices themselves will pay the full pro rata Annual Student Contribution. Apprentices will pay the same contribution as students, apportioned for the time they spend in the Institutes. Unlike students, apprentices are paid a training allowance by SOLAS for phases of their training spent in Institutes of Technology. This allowance is equivalent to the wages they receive from their employers for on the job phases and is unaffected by the budgetary changes. "I am confident that the introduction of the direct payment by apprentices of the Annual Student Contribution will have no effect on completion rates. Apprentices, who are in receipt of allowances and have invested time and effort to reach phase 4 and 6 of their apprenticeships, see the value of the apprenticeship programme they are on and will remain to completion."

Data Protection

Ceisteanna (156)

Niall Collins

Ceist:

156. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach if he has established an information officer; if this person is in charge of developing and implementing data protection in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8970/14]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

My Department has no designated Information Officer. The responsibility of overseeing data protection in my Department is the responsibility of Corporate Affairs Division. All records and data, electronic and paper based, held in my Department are maintained in compliance with the provisions of the Data Protection Acts 1988 and 2003.

Electoral Divisions Report

Ceisteanna (157, 158, 159, 160)

Terence Flanagan

Ceist:

157. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Taoiseach the proportion of adults aged over 60 years in the 2011 census in a selection of district electoral divisions (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8972/14]

Terence Flanagan

Ceist:

158. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Taoiseach the proportion of adults aged over 60 years in the 2011 census in a selection of district electoral divisions (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8973/14]

Terence Flanagan

Ceist:

159. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Taoiseach the proportion of adults aged over 60 years in the 2011 census in a selection of district electoral divisions (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8974/14]

Terence Flanagan

Ceist:

160. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Taoiseach the proportion of adults aged over 60 years in the 2011 census in a selection of district electoral divisions (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8975/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 157 to 160, inclusive, together.

The information requested by the Deputy is contained in the following table.

Proportion of the population aged 60 and over for selected electoral divisions, Census 2011

Electoral Division	Total population in ED	Total aged 60 years and over	Percentage of total population 60 and over (%)
Pembroke - South Dock
Mansion House A	4,347	488	11.2
Mansion House B	1,069	149	13.9
Pembroke East A	4,929	696	14.1
Pembroke East B	3,608	710	19.7
Pembroke East C	4,004	920	23.0
Pembroke East D	4,680	1,424	30.4
Pembroke East E	3,603	655	18.2
Pembroke West A	4,673	627	13.4
Pembroke West B	3,174	474	14.9
Pembroke West C	4,355	728	16.7
Rathmines East B	5,533	886	16.0
Royal Exchange A	4,481	441	9.8
Royal Exchange B	1,914	269	14.1
St. Kevin's	4,910	495	10.1
South Dock	7,129	557	7.8
Wood Quay A	2,669	523	19.6
Wood Quay B	3,482	462	13.3
Howth - Malahide
Baldoyle	7,050	1,284	18.2
Balgriffin	1,966	206	10.5
Howth	8,256	2,400	29.1
Kinsaley	8,475	611	7.2
Malahide East	6,879	1,388	20.2
Malahide West	6,273	1,235	19.7
Portmarnock North	4,118	1,141	27.7
Portmarnock South	3,465	783	22.6
Sutton	5,609	1,480	26.4
Swords-Seatown (east of M1 motorway)	3,728	217	5.8
Clontarf
Beaumont D	2,149	425	19.8
Beaumont E	2,001	636	31.8
Beaumont F	3,437	803	23.4
Clontarf East A	3,301	851	25.8
Clontarf East B	6,759	1,394	20.6
Clontarf East C	3,113	771	24.8
Clontarf East D	2,673	656	24.5
Clontarf East E	1,675	438	26.1
Clontarf West A	3,436	663	19.3
Clontarf West B	2,316	509	22.0
Clontarf West C	3,366	535	15.9
Clontarf West D	2,066	344	16.7
Clontarf West E	2,324	544	23.4
Drumcondra South A	4,571	659	14.4
Grace Park	5,670	1,227	21.6
Raheny-St. Assam	3,501	980	28.0
Coolock
Ayrfield	5,395	910	16.9
Beaumont B	4,805	1,353	28.2
Beaumont C	3,106	960	30.9
Edenmore	2,725	817	30.0
Grange A	8,948	757	8.5
Grange B	4,565	307	6.7
Grange C	3,048	843	27.7
Grange D	4,105	872	21.2
Grange E	2,580	747	29.0
Harmonstown A	2,722	776	28.5
Harmonstown B	2,684	539	20.1
Kilmore A	3,505	343	9.8
Kilmore B	2,600	637	24.5
Kilmore C	1,415	310	21.9
Kilmore D	2,082	664	31.9
Priorswood A	1,562	186	11.9
Priorswood B	2,673	311	11.6
Priorswood C	4,491	303	6.7
Priorswood D	2,729	529	19.4
Priorswood E	2,821	479	17.0
Raheny-Foxfield	2,517	663	26.3
Raheny-Greendale	2,161	605	28.0

Semi-State Bodies Remuneration

Ceisteanna (161)

John Lyons

Ceist:

161. Deputy John Lyons asked the Taoiseach the chief executive officers of semi-State companies under the aegis of his Department that are on Hay contracts and those who are not on Hay contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10130/14]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

There are no semi State companies under the remit of my Department.