Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The current information on school completion is interesting. For those who entered second level between 2001 and 2006 in the schools in question, the average leaving certificate retention rate increased substantially from 68.2% to 80.1%. Last year, the proportion of early school leavers in Ireland was 10.6%, down from 13% in 2004, and was well below the EU average of 14%. Whatever about the range of initiatives being undertaken, it is good to see the relevant statistics are improving so substantially.

I agree, however, with the Deputies' points. We are undertaking the review because the projects need to be examined and value for money needs to be considered. We also need to determine which projects are working successfully and how they can be mainstreamed. There is significant variation.

I do not expect the review to cost much, but I will revert to Deputy Troy on that question. In our analysis of the projects and their outcomes, we intend to link with those involved to benefit from their experience.

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