Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 169: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be provided in budget 2006 to implement proposals expected from the task force on student behaviour in second level schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32816/05]

Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 207: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when the task force on student behaviour will deliver its final report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32715/05]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 207 together.

The task force on student behaviour will complete a final report, including recommendations, later this year. In its interim report, the task force recognises that the most important feature of its work is to generate a set of recommendations that will impact in a positive way and will help to curtail the spread of disruptive behaviour in our schools. At its interim report stage, the task force decided to document the broad areas that are emerging and that will form the bedrock of its recommendations in its final report which is expected in December 2005.

Since the task force was established early this year, it has come to grips with the breadth and complexity of this vitally important area. In tackling its job it has consulted widely and built upon submissions, research and its own analysis to define sharply the areas where, in its final report, it will make recommendations to underpin future change.

I am particularly impressed with the ability of the task force to focus on the core issues. It has indicated to me that it is on target to produce a final report and detailed recommendations in December of this year. Before producing that report it wanted to engage further with the wide range of interests in this area and to review what works and does not work both domestically and internationally. I am greatly encouraged by this interim report and I look forward to receiving the final report and its recommendations.