Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)

Do I understand from the Minister's reply that schools in which children of the same family are enrolled will be considered in the review? I have been informed that where children from the same family graduate to secondary school, it sometimes arises that the primary school is included whereas the secondary school is not. Why are the criteria for primary level different from those for second level? The Minister has outlined for me the variables with regard to primary schools, which include unemployment, local authority accommodation and lone parenthood. However, retention rates and exam results are the main criteria at second level. Why is that the case? Will the Minister consider a review of the policy because it can have the result that the same families are not included at second level?

How much additional money will be spent this and next year on the DEIS programme? How many appeals has the Department received from primary and secondary schools?

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