Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)

I support Deputy Enright in her call for more funding for the National Educational Welfare Board, which is under stress to carry out its statutory duty. I am somewhat surprised that the Minister does not have up-to-date information. Under the Education (Welfare) Act, the National Educational Welfare Board should have such information available. If this is not the case is it because the board is under resourced? It has a direct role in ensuring that children transfer from primary to second level.

Will the Minister focus on children who drop out in the early years, particularly in the first year of second level education? Anecdotal evidence seems to suggest that many children cannot hack it at second level because they do not have the atmosphere and support available at primary level.

See this speech in context