Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

There is clear evidence that the drop-out numbers have risen. Between 1996 and 1997, 735 children failed to make the transition to second level, and in 2002-03 the figure was 1,004.

How will decisions be made on the classification of schools in terms of disadvantage? The Minister said the initial focus will be on the urban areas. For one reason or another, there are certain villages in rural Ireland where schools have an equal degree of disadvantage. I would not like to see such schools left behind. Some of the areas involved were not classified as disadvantaged and may need to be now. What process will be in place for the review?

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