Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

73. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to restore funding for Traveller education to pre-2008 levels; the measures he has taken or planned to improve educational outcomes for members of the travelling community here, particularly in view of the high drop out rate from post-primary education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35028/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My Department's policy in relation to Traveller Education is informed by the Report and Recommendations for a Traveller Education Strategy (2006), following wide ranging consultation with Traveller representative groups and other relevant stakeholders.  The principle of inclusion is at the core of the Strategy. In keeping with this principle, additional resources provided in the education system for all children, including Travellers, are allocated on the basis of identified individual educational need.

The funding for Traveller Education to which the Deputy refers relates to the reduction in funding for segregated Traveller specific programmes, which were phased out in line with the principle of inclusion in the Strategy. To support the transition to mainstream education of Traveller pupils, my Department continues to provide additional resources to schools.  This funding currently involves an allocation of €10m.

The challenges faced by Traveller children in education regarding school attendance, participation and retention fall within the remit of the Educational Welfare Service (EWS) of TUSLA, who work directly with all families including Traveller families to address Early School Leaving. TUSLA is an agency under the remit of my colleague the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs.