Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 October 2014
545. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will liaise with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs in evaluating the operation of the home school community teacher service; and if she is satisfied with the changed nature of the service such that the service may be provided by professionals other than teachers. [40455/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department liaises with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs on an ongoing basis to progress delivery policies relating to improved educational outcomes for all children and young people. My colleague the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs has a statutory role in relation to attendance, participation and retention in schools and to the administration of the Home School Community Liaison Scheme and the School Completion Programme both of which are key components of DEIS School Support Programme. My Department is currently participating in a review of the School Completion Programme commissioned by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs and will co-operate with any similar review of the operation of the Home School Liaison Scheme that may be initiated. My Department has not been made aware of plans by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs to evaluate the operation of the Home School Community Liaison Scheme or to change the nature of the scheme such that it may be provided by professionals other than teachers.
