Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)

The recent budget decision to discontinue the ex-quota allocation of careers guidance hours on the expectation that schools will provide guidance within the general teacher allocation is completely unacceptable. It means career guidance will be competing with general subject areas within the general school allocation. Schools will have to choose between guidance counselling and other essential subjects. With the recent increase in the pupil teacher ratio, schools are already struggling to provide subject choices and will not be in a position to provide both effectively.

The decision is also contrary to the current Department of Education and Skills policy on guidance. For example, the Department's inspectorate recommended in two whole-school evaluations in Kerry that, "Arrangements should be made for guidance to be delivered by a qualified guidance counsellor". The new proposed junior certificate document, Towards a Framework for Junior Cycle, highlights a modern approach to course-work which involves many choices for students which can only be effectively supported by a qualified guidance counsellor.

As job prospects are fewer the need for accurate and solid careers advice is more critical than ever. With the deteriorating economic situation more and more families are presented with pressures and crisis situations which need a strong and immediate response from schools. I cannot stress strongly enough the high levels of stress, depression, suicide and mental health issues that are addressed by our guidance counsellors on a daily basis.

In the context of increased globalisation and the changing nature of jobs and careers in the smart economy, IBEC, Forfás, third level institutions and other agencies depend on guidance counsellors to support students to make informed decisions about their futures. The role of the guidance counsellor is critical in ensuring that the future skills needs of the country are met. Recent ESRI research found that students need more guidance in schools and want more one-to-one guidance. If we are to care for our students and contribute to the smart economy we must, at least, maintain the current allocation for guidance and counselling and not allow these hours to be absorbed into the academic curriculum.

The proposal in the budget promises only negative implications for Ireland, its young people, their families and the education system.

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