Written Answers Nos. 404-423
405. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education if she will provide the list of all schools that have been retrofitted under the school's energy retrofit pathfinder programme; the approximate number of students in each school; the total retrofitting cost for each of these schools; the BER rating of each school before and after works were completed in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57865/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am delighted to advise that the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan TD and I recently launched the 2023 – 2024 Schools Energy Retrofit Pathfinder Programme which will evaluate and demonstrate the approach to energy retrofit and carbon reduction in the schools’ sector, testing energy efficiency solutions and renewable heat technologies.
The 2023/24 Pathfinder is jointly funded with a targeted budget of €35 million from the Department of Education and Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the Planning and Building Unit in the Department of Education with delivery support from Limerick Clare ETB.
This government-funded energy retrofit pathfinder programme will target energy use and CO2 emission reduction by 51%, testing deep retrofit and low carbon heating solutions. The programme will see up to ten schools benefitting from a selection of energy efficiency works.
This programme continues to assist the Department to explore options and test various solutions for decarbonised energy efficiency solutions in our broad range of school building types. It is paving the way for, and informing, a much larger schools national programme for the energy retrofit of schools built prior to 2008 as included in the National Development Plan and will play a key part of meeting delivery of the Climate Action Plan.
Design teams are being appointed to each school to feasibility stage to investigate retrofit and decarbonisation options, and works will roll out from summer 2023 subject to the outcome of the feasibility stage. The feasibility stage includes looking at various options for potential retrofit levels with renewable heat up to what would be required to be a Zero Emission Building.
The schools for 2023 present a variety of challenges, including building age, archetype and retrofit requirements. The works typically involves upgrades to the building fabric including wall and roof insulation, doors and windows, air tightness improvements, LED lighting and heating upgrades as well as renewable technologies.
The pathfinder programme has retrofitted 42 schools across Ireland to date with work on an additional 15 schools currently at various stages of progress.
The pathfinder development approach from 2017 to 2020 was via measurement of improvements through the SEAI Monitoring & Reporting Database against historical outputs (bills etc.)
In 2020 the pathfinder approach adjusted to measures to improve the BER to a minimum of B and decarbonisation in recognition of the transition to decarbonisation in the 2020 Programme for Government when the focus nationally moved from energy demand reduction to energy related greenhouse gas emission reduction for the public sector bodies.
I attach the information as requested by the Deputy in tabular form.
Projects from 2020 onwards required understanding of transition to full decarbonisation following on from 2020 programme for Government. Pathfinder programme then changed focus to be BER lead.
|
Roll Number |
School Name |
Year selected |
Pupil number |
Retrofit cost |
|
76061W |
Colaiste Na Trocaire |
2017 |
482 |
€ 611,790.58 |
|
81009B |
Boherbue Comprehensive |
2017 |
378 |
€ 465,123.84 |
|
64580H |
St. Gerald's College |
2017 |
614 |
€ 591,391.97 |
|
19985F |
Our Lady of Mercy NS |
2017 |
422 |
€ 608,483.85 |
|
61141M |
Presentation College |
2017 |
803 |
€ 419,166.14 |
|
20374G |
Abacus Special School |
2017 |
31 |
€ 528,361.23 |
|
19220S |
Scoil Ide |
2017 |
236 |
€ 304,617.20 |
|
20218P |
St. Columbanus Comprehensive School |
2017 |
95 |
€ 207,814.25 |
|
60792C |
Presentation College |
2017 |
141 |
€ 283,560.48 |
|
19960M |
St. John's |
2017 |
170 |
€ 208,499.40 |
|
00651R |
Borris National School |
2018 |
206 |
€ 255,217.57 |
|
91502N |
John the Baptist Community School |
2018 |
1110 |
€ 400,156.28 |
|
16825O |
Scoil Bhride |
2018 |
331 |
€ 260,892.64 |
|
91391H |
St Peter's Community School |
2018 |
349 |
€ 505,788.12 |
|
19667O |
Our Lady of Lourdes (Limerick) |
2018 |
166 |
€ 870,000.71 |
|
71700F |
Coláiste Mhuire |
2018 |
339 |
€ 783,836.67 |
|
64971W |
Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School |
2019 |
490 |
€ 108,970.50 |
|
07722D |
St Peter’s School |
2019 |
141 |
€ 171,791.14 |
|
19261J |
St Hilda's Special school |
2019 |
45 |
€ 9,040.50 |
|
91409A |
Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair |
2019 |
478 |
€ 217,634.93 |
|
19971R |
Gaelscoil Adhamhnain |
2019 |
438 |
€ 111,913.27 |
|
62840U |
Loreto Secondary School |
2019 |
955 |
€ 1,063,019.02 |
|
62770C |
Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana |
2019 |
794 |
€ 764,818.18 |
|
16789N |
St Oran's N S |
2019 |
208 |
€ 252,251.50 |
|
91414Q |
Dunmore Community School |
2019 |
328 |
€ 1,024,568.27 |
|
63090I |
Holy Rosary College |
2019 |
735 |
€ 161,352.82 |
|
62900M |
Coláiste Mhuire |
2019 |
243 |
€ 697,881.90 |
|
17170T |
Lawrencetown NS |
2019 |
83 |
€ 661,562.80 |
|
19465C |
St Kevins Boys NS |
2019 |
319 |
€ 658,125.66 |
|
19466E |
St Kevin's Girl's NS |
2019 |
273 |
€ 72,536.50 |
|
20468P |
St. Dominics NS |
2019 |
410 |
€ 1,830,434.80 |
|
76073G |
Castletroy Community College |
2019 |
1233 |
€ 584,543.08 |
2020 Onwards
|
Roll Number |
School Name |
Year selected |
Pupil number |
Retrofit cost |
Pre works BER |
Post works BER |
|
81010J |
St. Columbas Comprehensive Glenties |
2021 |
386 |
€ 1,985,700.97 |
D2 |
B1 |
|
70250S |
Marino College |
2020 |
248 |
€ 1,236,902.87 |
E1 |
B2 |
|
91342R |
Pobail Scoil Neasain |
2020 |
810 |
€ 4,200,068.97 |
E1 |
B2 |
|
81012N |
Scoil Chuimsitheach Chiaráin |
2020 |
399 |
€ 2,251,141.00 |
D1 |
B2 |
|
61580P |
Loreto Secondary School |
2020 |
1028 |
€ 395,331.13 |
C1 |
B3 |
|
19785U |
St Bernadettes Senior |
2020 |
209 |
€ 458,521.52 |
C1 |
B2 |
|
19743E |
St Bernadettes Junior |
2020 |
183 |
€ 75,654.97 |
C1 |
B2 |
|
70901K |
St Annes Community College |
2020 |
590 |
€ 1,439,145.47 |
D1 B3 |
|
|
01607T |
Cornafulla National School |
2019 |
236 |
€ 1,487,470.30 |
C1 |
B1 |
|
17150N |
Scoil Mhuire Boys NS (Monaghan) |
2021 |
271 |
€ 1,985,681.06 |
C1 |
B1 |
406. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education the budget for the summer works programme for schools in 2023; the portion of this funding that will be dedicated to energy efficiency upgrades; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57866/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Summer Works Scheme plays an important role in the maintenance and upgrade of the condition of our schools. It provides important opportunities for enhancing the energy efficiency of schools through upgrade works to roofs, windows, heating systems etc.
As part of its planning for 2023 and beyond, my Department's officials are working on the arrangements for the next phases of the summer works programme and also the programme for the provision of Photovoltaic Panels in schools with up to 6KW output as was announced recently as part of Budget 2023.
This planning work is ongoing in my Department and announcements will be made in due course.
407. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Niall Collins den Aire Oideachais nuashonrú a thabhairt ar shaincheist – (sonraí tugtha); agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [57874/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTá forbairtí suntasacha tarlaithe le deich mbliana anuas maidir le soláthar curaclaim Ghaeilge d’fhoghlaimeoirí in iar-bhunscoileanna.
Mar a tharlaíonn le gach obair forbartha curaclaim a dhéanann an Chomhairle Náisiúnta Curaclaim agus Measúnachta (CNCM), is grúpaí ionadaíocha forbartha a dhéanann na sonraíochtaí ábhar a fhorbairt. Bhí an Grúpa Forbartha Ábhar (Meitheal Forbartha) do Ghaeilge na Sraithe Sóisearaí agus do Ghaeilge na hArdteistiméireachta comhdhéanta de raon príomhpháirtithe leasmhara a raibh saineolas agus taithí acu ar fhoghlaim, ar theagasc agus ar mheasúnú na Gaeilge, múinteoirí a bhí ag teagasc Gaeilge san áireamh.
Maidir leis an tSraith Shóisearach, tar éis comhairliúcháin fhairsing, tugadh isteach sonraíochtaí Gaeilge T1 (Teanga 1) agus T2 (Teanga 2) i scoileanna in 2017 mar chuid de Chéim 3 de rolladh amach Chreata na Sraithe Sóisearaí (2015). Ba é seo an chéad uair a rinneadh, mar fhreagra ar aiseolas ó na páirtithe leasmhara, soláthar scoite sa churaclam Gaeilge do dhaltaí a bhí ag foghlaim in iar-bhunscoileanna lán-Ghaeilge agus in iar-bhunscoileanna a bhí ag teagasc trí mheán an Bhéarla. Tá gach dalta a thosaigh sa tSraith Shóisearach ó Fhómhar 2017 i leith ag foghlaim Gaeilge mar atá leagtha amach sna sonraíochtaí nua seo.
Ag freagairt d’iarratais a fuarthas ó pháirtithe leasmhara tríd an gcomhairliúchán a tharla le déanaí ar dhréacht-sonraíochtaí T1 agus T2 do Ghaeilge na hArdteistiméireachta, chinn Comhairle an CNCM athbhreithniú a dhéanamh ar luath-fheidhmiú na Gaeilge, T1 agus T2, sa tSraith Shóisearach. Dá réir sin, tuigim go bhfuil tuarascáil ar luath-fheidhmiú na Gaeilge, T1 agus T2, sa tSraith Shóisearach á chríochnú faoi láthair ag an CNCM.
I mí na Nollag 2018, chuir an CNCM tús le hobair chun Sonraíochtaí Gaeilge Ardteistiméireachta a fhorbairt do T1 agus T2. Osclaíodh comhairliúchán ar dhréacht-sonraíochtaí i mí Feabhra 2021. Mar fhreagra ar aiseolas agus ar iarratais ó pháirtithe leasmhara, cuireadh síneadh le spriocdháta an chomhairliúcháin seo go dtí deireadh mhí na Samhna 2021. Tá sé tugtha le fios dom gur cuireadh dréacht-tuarascáil ar na comhairliúcháin sin faoi bhráid Chomhairle an CNCM an 16/17 Meitheamh agus tuigim go mbeidh an tuarascáil chríochnaithe á fháil agam i mí na Nollag.
Tá forbairt scileanna ginchumais agus idirghníomhaíochta Gaeilge scoláirí lárnach do shonraíochtaí curaclaim na Gaeilge ag gach leibhéal. Cuimsíonn na sonraíochtaí cur chuige comhtháite i bhforbairt na scileanna teanga go léir. Is fiú a thabhairt faoi deara go gcinntíonn na sonraíochtaí do Ghaeilge na Sraithe Sóisearaí go mbíonn deis ag gach scoláire a bheith gafa le measúnú a dhéanamh ar a gcumas Gaeilge labhartha mar aon leis na scileanna teanga eile.
Is beart eatramhach é an cinneadh maidir le huainiú Pháipéar 1 Gaeilge agus Béarla a athrú a rinneadh chun freagairt don chomhdhearcadh maidir leis an ualach measúnaithe a scaipeadh agus an strus a bhíonn ar scoláirí a laghdú dá réir, go dtí go bhforbrófar sonraíochtaí athbhreithnithe i ngach ábhar, Gaeilge agus Béarla san áireamh. Agus an cinneadh seo á dhéanamh agam, theastaigh uaim a chinntiú go mbeadh na buntáistí a bhaineann le hathfhorbairt na Sraithe Sinsearaí le feiceáil agus le mothú ag gach scoláire a luaithe agus is féidir. Mura ndéanfaimis an t-athrú sin, bheadh sé bliana de scoláirí Ardteistiméireachta, nó timpeall 360,000 scoláire, nach mbeadh buntáistí na leasuithe le feiceáil ná le mothú acu. Tá tús curtha leis an bpleanáil is gá chun Páipéar 1 Gaeilge agus Béarla a reáchtáil ag deireadh na cúigiú bliana ó shamhradh 2024. Nuair a bheidh an phleanáil sin curtha i gcrích cuirfear an t-eolas go léir ar fáil do scoláirí agus do scoileanna.
Maidir le pointí an CAO, is eol dom go bhfuil iarrtha ag páirtithe leasmhara Gaeilge go gcuirfí pointí bónais CAO ar fáil chun glacadh dréacht-sonraíocht T1 a spreagadh. Ní mór ag an tráth seo fanacht ar thorthaí an phróisis chomhairliúcháin sula ndéanfar aon chinneadh faoina leithéid. Cuirtear in iúl don Teachta go mbaineann an cheist maidir le pointí bónais CAO leis an Roinn Breisoideachais agus Ardoideachais, Taighde, Nuálaíochta agus Eolaíochta.
English Version
There have been significant developments over the past decade in Irish language curriculum provision for learners in post-primary schools.
As with all curriculum development work undertaken by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), the development of subject specifications is carried out by representative development groups. The Subject Development Group (Meitheal Forbartha) for Junior Cycle Irish and for Leaving Certificate Irish both comprised a range of key stakeholders with expertise and experience in the learning, teaching and assessment of Irish, including practising teachers of Irish.
In relation to Junior Cycle, following extensive consultation, L1 (Language 1) and L2 (Language 2) Irish specifications were introduced in schools in 2017 as part of Phase 3 of the roll out of the Framework for Junior Cycle (2015). This was the first time discrete Irish language curricular provision was made, in response to stakeholder feedback, for student learning Irish in Irish-medium and in English-medium post-primary schools. All students who started Junior Cycle from Autumn 2017 onwards are learning Irish as laid out in these new specifications.
Responding to requests received from stakeholders through the recent consultation on draft L1 and L2 specifications for Leaving Certificate Irish, the NCCA Council decided to undertake a review of the early enactment of Irish, L1 and L2, in Junior Cycle. Accordingly, I understand that a report on the early enactment of Irish, L1 and L2, in Junior Cycle is currently being finalised by the NCCA.
The NCCA commenced work to develop Leaving Certificate Irish Specifications for L1 and L2 in December 2018. A consultation on draft specifications was opened in February 2021. In response to stakeholder feedback and requests, the closing date for this consultation was extended to the end of November 2021. I am advised that a draft report on those consultations was presented to NCCA Council on 16/17 June and I expect to receive the finalised report in December.
The development of students’ skills in Irish language spoken production and interaction is central to the curricular specifications for Irish at all levels. The specifications espouse an integrated approach to the development of all language skills. It is worth noting that the specifications for Irish at Junior Cycle ensures all students have opportunity to engage in the assessment of their competence in spoken Irish, as well as the other language skills.
The decision to alter the timing of Paper 1 in Irish and English is an interim measure designed to respond to this consensus for spreading the assessment load and thereby reduce the stress experienced by students, pending the development of revised specifications in all subjects, including Irish and English. In making this decision, I also wanted to ensure that all students would begin to see and feel the benefits of Senior Cycle redevelopment as soon as possible. If we did not make this change, six years of Leaving Certificate students, or approximately 360,000 students, would not see or feel the benefits of the reforms. The planning necessary to hold Paper 1 in Irish and English at the end of the fifth year from summer 2024 has commenced. Once this planning has been completed full information will be provided to students and schools.
On the matter of CAO points, I am aware that Irish-language stakeholders have called for CAO bonus points to be made available to encourage uptake of the draft L1 specification. It is necessary at this time to await the outcomes of the consultation process before reaching any decision on such matters. The Deputy is advised that CAO bonus points are a matter for the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
408. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education the steps that are being taken to ensure that a person (details supplied) can attend a school suitable for his requirements and who has yet to be accepted by a local school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57876/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to thank the Deputy for the question and would like to advise the following.
My Department is committed to delivering an education system that is of the highest quality and where every child and young person feels valued and is actively supported and nurtured to reach their full potential. My Department strives to ensure that every child has access to an educational experience that is appropriate to their needs and supports both their academic and personal development.
Our policy, which is set out in the Education of Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 (EPSEN) is that children with SEN should be educated in mainstream placements with additional supports provided as appropriate.
Where children require more specialised educational settings, such as special classes or special schools, the Department and National Council for Special Education (NCSE) ensures that the necessary resources and supports for such placements are provided in line with the needs of the child.
My Department is engaging intensely with the NCSE in relation to the forward planning of new special classes for the next school year 2023/2024. This work involves a detailed review of statistical data in relation to forecasting demand for special class places, consideration of improved data sharing arrangements and a particular focus on the provision of special classes at post-primary level.
The NCSE is statutorily responsible for planning and coordinating provision at both a local and a national level and advising the Department in this regard. At local level, the NCSE is continuing to engage with schools regarding the establishment of additional special classes for the next school year 2023/2024. Every support will be made available to schools to progress the opening of special classes in the shortest possible timeframe. As part of Budget 2023, additional funding is being provided to allow the NCSE recruit additional staff, including SENOs. These additional resources should ensure that the NCSE can better support parents and schools in relation to the provision of special education needs places.
Significant improvements have been made to the forward planning process for special education places over the last 2 to 3 years, including:
- the inclusion of special classes in all new schools by default (e.g. 4 class in a 1000 pupil post-primary school).
- improving the use of Geographic Information Systems in planning for special classes and special school places and
- increased engagement with key stakeholders such as patron bodies and management bodies, particularly at post-primary level.
As of 31st October there have been 393 new special classes open for the 2022/2023 school year, bringing the total of special classes to 2,545 opened nationwide. The 393 new special classes for 2022/23 is broken down by 260 at primary level and 133 at post primary level.
As part of Budget 2023, the Department’s budget was substantially increased, by over 10%, meaning that for 2023 the Department will spend over €2.6 billion on special education. This level of educational funding and support is unprecedented and represents in excess of 27% of the Department’s total allocation for 2023. This includes additional teaching and care supports.
For 2023, at least a further 370 special classes will open, taking the total number of special classes to over 2,900 in 2023.
My Department is committed, in conjunction with the NCSE, to continue to work with parents, schools, patrons and all stakeholders to ensure that there are sufficient appropriate places for students with additional needs and to support all students to achieve their potential.
Parents seeking special class placements for their children are advised to contact the NCSE locally so that their needs can be taken into account for planning purposes. The local SENOs remain available to assist and advise parents of children with special educational needs. Parents may contact SENOs directly using the contact details available at: ncse.ie/regional-services-contact-list
Information on the list of schools with special classes, the types and locations of these classes is published on the NCSE website and is available at www.ncse.ie
It is open to any school to make an application to the NCSE for the establishment of a specialised provision and where sanctioned, a range of supports, including capital funding, is made available to the school.
I want to reassure you also that my Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an education.
As the matter raised relates to an individual case, I have so arranged to forward the details you have provided to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
409. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education if all outstanding monies for school bus tickets have been refunded by Bus Éireann in an area (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57901/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department. In the last school year over 121,400 children, including over 15,500 children with special educational needs, were transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country at a cost of over €289m in 2021.
In July 2022, Government announced funding for the waiving of school transport scheme fees for the coming school year as part of a wider package of cost of living measures.
Ticket registration for the 2022/23 school year closed on 29 July by which time almost 130,000 applications/registrations were received for mainstream school transport. This figure includes 44,299 new applications as well as roll-overs from the previous school year.
Bus Éireann have confirmed that refunds have issued to all families who paid for transport for the current school year, prior to the announcement that fees would be waived.
If families have any queries in relation to refunds, they can contact their local Bus Éireann office directly, contact details can be found at: www.buseireann.ie by clicking on 'contact your local school transport provider'.
410. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Education if a school bus ticket will be provided for a student (details supplied) who is currently paying for a taxi every day to attend school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57916/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department. In the last school year over 121,400 children, including over 15,500 children with special educational needs, were transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country at a cost of over €289m in 2021.
In July 2022, Government announced funding for the waiving of school transport scheme fees for the coming school year as part of a wider package of cost of living measures.
Ticket registration for the 2022/23 school year closed on 29 July by which time almost 130,000 applications/registrations were received for mainstream school transport. This figure includes 44,299 new applications as well as roll-overs from the previous school year.
Children are eligible for transport at primary level where they reside not less than 3.2 kilometres from and are attending their nearest national school, and at post primary level where they reside not less than 4.8 kilometres from and are attending their nearest post primary school/education centre as determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.
Children who are eligible for school transport and who have completed the application process on time will be accommodated on school transport services where such services are in operation.
Bus Éireann has advised that the child referred to by the Deputy is eligible for school transport under the terms of the scheme, however an application was not submitted by the closing date 29 April and the family did not complete the ticket registration process by the closing date of 29 July. Bus Éireann has advised all existing services in this area are currently operating at capacity.
411. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education when school transport will be provided for a Ukrainian national (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57965/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department. In the last school year over 121,400 children, including over 15,500 children with special educational needs, were transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country at a cost of over €289m in 2021.
In July 2022, Government announced funding for the waiving of school transport scheme fees for the coming school year as part of a wider package of cost of living measures.
Ticket registration for the 2022/23 school year closed on 29 July by which time almost 130,000 applications/registrations were received for mainstream school transport. This figure includes 44,299 new applications as well as roll-overs from the previous school year.
Bus Éireann have confirmed that the pupil referred to by the Deputy can be accommodated on an existing service and will commence on transport from 21st November 2022. Bus Éireann have notified the parent directly.
412. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Education if she will confirm that three primary schools on the same campus (details supplied) have been selected for reconfiguration and divestment as part of a pilot scheme; if she will give full details of this proposal; if a facilitator has been appointed to facilitate this process; if the facilitator will be consulting parents and the local community on this initiative in order that their many queries can be answered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58032/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn March 2022 I announced that arrangements are being put in place in a number of towns and areas of cities that have no multi-denominational primary schools at present as part of a pilot reconfiguration arrangement. This work involves identifying potential schools and engaging with school authorities, school staff and the school communities, including parents, with a view to agreeing on a transfer of patronage and change of ethos, where there is sufficient demand for this. Where a school transfers from the patronage of one patron to another, the school remains open with the same roll number and operating from the same school property. All State-funded primary schools follow a common national curriculum and are subject to the same rules and regulations.
The Council for Education of the Irish Episcopal Conference (representing the Catholic patrons) and relevant Bishops have confirmed their willingness to engage and co-operate fully with the Department in seeking to facilitate a more diverse school patronage in these towns and cities. The pilot areas are:
|
Arklow |
Athlone |
Cork* |
Dublin* |
|
Dundalk |
Galway* |
Limerick* |
Youghal |
*parts of these cities
My Department has made available a number of independent facilitators across the pilot areas to work with the school patron and relevant school authorities at a local level:
- to progress the reconfiguration pilot initiative;
- to assist in identifying potential school(s) in this regard; and
- to engage with stakeholders including school authorities, school staff and parents with a view to agreeing on a transfer of patronage and change of ethos, where there is sufficient demand for this in the pilot areas.
Among the pilot areas being engaged with to consider if there is demand for transfer of patronage and change of ethos to multi-denominational is the area and the three schools to which the Deputy refers. In this respect, the relevant facilitator has met with the school authorities and staff in respect of the schools referenced by the Deputy. Arrangements are being made to agree dates for the facilitator’s information meetings with parents of the children in the three schools.
In respect of parents, the structured engagement process involves the facilitator inviting parents to an information meeting where the facilitator makes a presentation to parents providing information on the schools reconfiguration for diversity process initiative, including information on what this may mean for parents and pupils and setting out the steps in the engagement process. At the information meeting with the facilitator, parents have the opportunity to raise any questions and to share their views.
Following this, the facilitator and patron/patron’s representative where appropriate, reviews the engagement as part of each of the information sessions with the school community and the facilitator writes a preliminary report reflecting the engagement with the school authorities, staff and parents and submits this to the patron.
In pilot areas where the engagement has already progressed to this stage, the facilitator’s preliminary report to the patron was circulated to the full school community and a dedicated reconfiguration e-mail address was provided so that the school community, including parents, could provide any feedback/views and the Department collated this and provided this to the relevant facilitator.
An information pack for school communities, including parents, on transfer of patronage was published in March this year and can be accessed from www.gov.ie/schoolsreconfiguration.
Parents in the pilot areas can contact my Department directly by e-mail to ask questions or share their views on reconfiguration@education.gov.ie and parents and the school community in the area referred to by the Deputy can also contact the Department at the following e-mail address reconfiguration_dublin@education.gov.ie.
413. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Education the progress that has been made on the consultation process for the free schoolbooks scheme announced in Budget 2023; the categories of stakeholders that she intends to engage with as part of this process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58123/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra414. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Education the timelines for the implementation of the consultation process on the free schoolbooks scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58124/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra415. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Education when she expects to provide details to a range of stakeholders including parents and schools as to the way that the free schoolbooks scheme announced in Budget 2023 will operate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58125/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 413, 414 and 415 together.
As part of Budget 2023, my Department has secured funding to provide free books to primary school students in recognised primary schools from September 2023. This measure will eliminate the cost to families for all school books at primary school, including workbooks.
The implementation of the measure will build on the existing school book rental scheme, the free school books pilot provided to over one hundred schools in recent years and the planning work has already commenced. Over the coming period my Department will be engaging with the education partners and other stakeholders to roll out the measure in time for the 2023/24 school year.
Guidance on the procurement of books will be developed as part of our further engagement process with schools, parent and management bodies and other stakeholders on this measure, to ensure that value for money is achieved, and that schools will be supported to implement the scheme in a way that has the best learning outcomes for pupils. My Department will consider the information from the 102 schools involved in the free school book pilot when developing the guidance on the procurement of books.
It is planned that funds will be provided to schools to purchase school books and classroom resources. Schools buy books directly from school book suppliers at present as part of the implementation of the school book rental scheme. Ninety-six percent of primary schools participate in book rental schemes.
416. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education if there are any applications with her Department awaiting approval (details supplied); if so, the stage at which such applications are at; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58161/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of the 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030, my Department has committed to creating opportunities for expanding Irish-medium education outside the Gaeltacht in the context of the April 2018 announcement on the establishment of new schools, which will afford particular consideration to the establishment of Gaelscoileanna, Gaelcholáistí, and Aonaid Lán-Ghaeilge as part of the new patronage process.
Following the announcements since April 2018, my Department has developed a new Online Patronage Process System (OPPS), which provides objective information and allows parents to express their preferences in relation to the patronage and language of instruction, i.e. Irish or English, of these new schools (with the exception of those schools which have been designated as Irish-medium gaelscoileanna in advance of the OPPS opening for parents). Parental preferences, as well as other considerations such as the extent of diversity of provision in an area (including Irish-medium provision), are key to the decision-making process.
In addition, in September 2019, the Government announced measures to increase access to Irish-medium education as part of the patronage process, including that five new primary schools being established from 2020-2022 are being designated for Irish-medium education. This step is part of a framework which includes:
- Designating the language of a new primary school as Irish in some circumstances;
- Testing (on a pilot basis) the potential to cater for demand for English and Irish medium provision through, for example, delivering two 8-classroom primary schools (one English-medium and one Irish-medium) in a shared building/campus rather than delivering one 16-classroom primary school, subject to factors such as demand and site conditions;
- Exploring the potential to expand existing Irish-medium primary schools to meet unmet demand in an area;
- Providing opportunities for patrons of existing primary schools to change the language of instruction from English to Irish, such as is envisaged as part of the Schools Reconfiguration for Diversity process.
My Department currently has no applications in respect of the establishment of a Bunscoil or Meanscoil in Counties Cavan or Monaghan and at present has no plans for the establishment of same in these areas.
Details of schools that provide education through the medium of Irish are available on my Department's website www.education.ie.
The following schools provide education through the medium of Irish in Counties Cavan/Monaghan:
19469K NAOMH OLIVER PLUNKETT Monaghan Some subjects through Irish 19857T SCOIL ROIS Monaghan All subjects through Irish 19936P GAELSCOIL ULTAIN Monaghan All subjects through Irish 20026G Gaelscoil Bhreifne Cavan All subjects through Irish 20055N GAELSCOIL ÉOIS Monaghan All subjects through Irish 20327U Gaelscoil Lorgan Monaghan All subjects through Irish 20337A Edenmore N.S. Monaghan Some subjects through Irish 76091I Coláiste Oiriall Monaghan All subjects through Irish
417. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide a timeline for when the students who are in receipt of the disability support grant that missed the 14 November 2022 payment will receive their next payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57253/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra419. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Social Protection if claimants on the disability allowance who transferred to the temporary training allowance will be able to receive the one-off €500 cost-of-living lump sum payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57262/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra423. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will review the cost-of-living measures to include participants who attend the National Learning Network and who are in receipt of the introduction skills training scheme allowance. [57357/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra437. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection if persons who are participating in training and education courses who are usually in receipt of disability allowance will qualify for the €500 lump-sum payment for disability-related supports; if the decision to exclude these participants from receiving the payment was reverted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57505/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 417, 419, 423 and 437 together.
My Department has, as you will be aware, acted very quickly to deliver the Disability Support Grant and other budget measures within an exceptionally short timeframe. Wherever possible, budget measures that are usually implemented in the January to March period of the year following a budget announcement, have been brought forward and implemented within a period of weeks. While this early issue of payments was very challenging it was possible to achieve for people paid directly off the Department’s own payment systems.
However, when undertaking training courses, recipients of Disability Allowance move off the Department’s payment systems and transfer to a Department of Further, Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science funded Training Allowance. As a consequence, it was not possible to process early payment of the Disability Support Grant to these recipients in the same manner as was implemented in respect of people paid directly through the Department’s own systems.
I can confirm, however, that it is the intention that people on training courses, having previously been in receipt of a Disability Allowance payment, will receive the €500 Disability Support Grant.
My officials are examining this issue in conjunction with their colleagues in the Department of Further, Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to ensure the payment is made to those who are on Training courses as soon as possible.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
418. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Social Protection if her Department will review the household benefits package, given the energy and cost-of-living crisis. [57256/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra461. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Social Protection if her Department intends to review the household benefits package with a view to increasing same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57897/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 418 and 461 together.
The Household Benefits Package (HHB) comprises the electricity or gas allowance, and the free television licence. My Department will spend approximately €273 million this year on HHB for over 500,000 customers. People over the age of 70 receive the HHB, with one package provided per household. The HHB is also available to people living in the State aged 66-69 years who are in receipt of certain social welfare payments or who satisfy a means test. The HHB is available to some people under the age of 66 who are in receipt of certain welfare type payments.
While the Department's Schemes are reviewed on an ongoing basis, any decision to enhance the HHB package would have cost implications and could only be considered while taking account of the overall budgetary context and the availability of financial resources.
The Government is very aware of the increased cost of living and in Budget 2023 has provided an unprecedented response that aims to ease the financial pressure on households throughout the State.
As part of the Government's cost of living measures in Budget 2023, an Autumn Cost of Living Double Payment was paid to Social Protection recipients in October.
In November, a €200 Lump Sum Payment was paid to pensioners and people with a disability receiving the Living Alone Allowance, a €500 Cost of Living Payment is being paid to people receiving Carer’s Support Grant and a €500 Cost of Living Disability Support Grant is being paid to people in receipt of Disability Allowance, Invalidity Pension and Blind Pension. A €400 additional Lump Sum payment is also being made to all households in receipt of the Fuel Allowance Payment.
In December, a Christmas Bonus Double Payment will be paid to 1.3 million Social Protection recipients including pensioners, carers and people with disabilities.
From January 2023, the maximum rate of core Social Welfare rates will be increased. There will be proportionate increases for qualified adults and for people getting a reduced rate. The weekly full rate for a qualified child will increase to €42 for children under 12 years of age and to €50 for children aged 12 years and over.
Also, from January 2023, a new means threshold will be introduced for people aged 70 years and over. The new means threshold will be €500 for a single person and €1,000 for a couple. The weekly means threshold for those aged under 70 will be increased by €80 to €200 above the appropriate rate of State Pension (Contributory). Similarly, the allowable means for HHB purposes for those aged between 66-69 not in receipt of a qualifying payment will also be increased by €80 to €200 above the appropriate rate of State Pension (Contributory).
The enhanced electricity credit of €600 is another important Government measure announced in the Budget. This will also benefit all households. The first €200 was applied to electricity bills in November.
The Government will continue to monitor the cost-of-living situation closely.
I would also like to highlight that the Department of Social Protection provides Additional Needs Payments as part of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme for people who have an urgent need, which they cannot meet from their own resources. These payments are available through our Community Welfare Officers.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
420. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection if there has been a change in the way that joint bank accounts are assessed as means in instances in which the account is held jointly by a father and son (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57271/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe system of social assistance supports provides payments based on an income need. The means test plays a critical role in determining whether or not an income need arises as a consequence of a particular contingency – such as disability, unemployment or caring. This ensures that the recipient has a verifiable income need and that resources are targeted to those who need them most.How joint accounts are assessed will depend on several factors including whether both parties are claiming means-tested payments, conditions associated with the account and accessibility of the funds.
If the Deputy has a specific case in mind, please send the details into the Department and I will ask my officials to look into it.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
421. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of community employment participants who qualified for the CE scheme through disability allowance, blind pension and invalidity pension from January 2022 to date in tabular form. [57281/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe aim of the Community Employment (CE) programme is to enhance the employability of disadvantaged and long-term unemployed people by providing work experience and training opportunities for them within their local communities. The programme aims to improve a person’s opportunities to return to the labour market.
It appears from the department’s records that 392 participants commenced on CE from a Disability Allowance, Blind Person’s Pension or an Invalidity Pension in 2022. Table A below provides a breakdown of this figure from January to October 2022.
Table A:
|
Disability Allowance |
Invalidity Pension |
Blind Person’s Pension |
Monthly Total |
|
|
Jan |
19 |
0 |
0 |
19 |
|
Feb |
31 |
1 |
0 |
32 |
|
Mar |
20 |
2 |
0 |
22 |
|
Apr |
44 |
1 |
0 |
45 |
|
May |
33 |
3 |
0 |
36 |
|
Jun |
41 |
5 |
0 |
46 |
|
Jul |
47 |
6 |
0 |
53 |
|
Aug |
37 |
4 |
0 |
41 |
|
Sep |
56 |
6 |
0 |
62 |
|
Oct |
31 |
4 |
1 |
36 |
|
Total |
359 |
32 |
1 |
392 |
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
422. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she or any officials from her Department or from bodies under the aegis of her Department travelled to the Sharm el-Sheikh Climate Change Conference; the number who travelled; the costs incurred; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57322/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that neither I, nor officials from either my Department or the statutory bodies under its aegis, attended the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 27) in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt.
