James Lawless
Ceist:336. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Education if she will help in securing a school place for a child (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35276/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 5 July 2022
Ceisteanna (336)
Freagraí scríofa
To streamline the alignment of supports for Ukrainian families arriving in Ireland, I have established Regional Education and Language Teams (REALT).
The primary role of the REALT is to assist children in finding school places and to support schools to meet the needs of these children as they emerge. The REALT also advise and support the Department in developing new capacity where required, and to co-ordinate the provision of education services to children and families across their defined area. These teams act as a liaison between schools, local education support services and national support structures in relation to Ukrainian arrivals. The REALTs are initially focusing on ensuring that children find school places when they are ready to engage with the school system.
Current data available shows that overall there is significant capacity available at both primary and post-primary level. I am aware that some schools in certain areas are oversubscribed. The REALTs are helping to manage this; they will identify schools with capacity, assist with accessing transport, and provide feedback to the Department on progress and challenges.
Where a parent is experiencing difficulty finding a school place for their child, they should make contact with their local REALT team. Contact information for all REALT coordinators is available on my Department’s website at www.gov.ie/en/publication/48639-information-for-schools-ukraine/#regional-education-and-language-teams-realt.
With regard to the child referred to by the Deputy, I am pleased to advise that the local REALT coordinator has been engaging with the family and a place has been secured for the child.