Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, United Left)
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87. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs his views on the report from the Economic and Social Research Institute on the funding of the school completion programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36233/15]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The School Completion Programme provides targeted supports to approximately 36,000 children and young people at risk of educational disadvantage.

Since January 2014 Tusla has had operational responsibility for the School Completion Programme, including the allocation of funds to projects within the programme. In line with all other services, the programme experienced funding reductions during the years of economic recession. However, in 2015, the allocation to the programme, at almost €24.8m, was similar to that provided in 2014. Budget 2016 has confirmed that the Agency will receive funding of €676m in 2016, including capital, which is an increase of €38m on the provision in 2015. The overall level of funding being provided will significantly strengthen the Agency’s base funding level and its capacity to progress core programmes to secure improved outcomes for children and their families including educational outcomes.

The review of the School Completion Programme, undertaken for Tusla, was published by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) on 7th October 2015. It is now being considered by my Department and a range of actions has already been taken by the Agency aimed at strengthening the operation of the programme throughout the country.

The School Completion Programme is one of a number of educational welfare programmes brought together under the remit of Tusla last year as part of a new integrated response to meet the needs of children at risk of educational disadvantage. My Department will continue to work closely with the Agency and, in the context of the DEIS programme, with officials in Department of Education and Skills, to realise the potential of the School Completion Programme for these children.