James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for bringing this matter to the attention of the Minister, Deputy Harris. The Senator will be aware that Ireland, as a member of the European Union, offers freedom of movement to nationals of the European Economic Area and certain family members. The relevant EU legislation in this regard is the directive on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the member states. On 30 November 1994, the Council of the EU adopted a decision on a joint action on the basis of Article K.3(2)(b) of the Treaty on European Union concerning travel facilities for school pupils from third countries who are legally resident in a member state. This allows schoolchildren from third countries who are resident in a member state to visit or transit another member state of the EU if travelling as a member of a school group without the need to obtain a visa. To qualify under this measure, the pupils must be legally resident in an EU member state, they must be travelling in an organised school group seeking entry into another member state for a short stay or transit and the school must be a general education school. The concession does not apply to specialist institutions. The group must be accompanied by a teacher from the school and the pupils' details and the purpose of the journey must be listed on the common format form, list of travellers form, issued by the school. The application form is available on the immigration service website.

Travel, particularly as part of a school trip, is widely recognised as being incredibly valuable and beneficial to the development of children and young people. It exposes them to different cultures and languages. It informs their understanding of world history and builds empathy with other people's way of life. For many young people, travel is not an option outside of a school trip. School trips are therefore an affordable and engaging opportunity that can influence students' educational development.The Council decision has facilitated easier travel for non-EU students studying in Ireland to travel throughout the EU and for thousands of non-EU students residing in other member states to come and visit Ireland as part of their school trips. The Senator is very much aware of the technical side. I have heard what he has said. Some of the concern is more about students travelling from Ireland to other EU countries and perhaps embassies not being fully aware of the rights of those students from third countries.

I will certainly raise the matter further with the Minister, Deputy Harris. I will also raise the matter with the Departments of Foreign Affairs and Education to see whether schools can be alerted that this is available. Knowing this facility is available would encourage schools to take more trips because there is not the same complexity they might be afraid of. Today is Europe Day. I was delighted to spend time with a primary school in Rathgarogue, County Wexford. The more travel we can encourage the better the understanding of our country within the EU.