George Lawlor (Wexford, Labour)
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359. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if the school (details supplied) can be included in the 5-year attendance strategy pilot project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28574/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Tackling school absences will be a key part of my plan to ensure that every child can achieve their full potential. Regular attendance in school is essential not just for academic achievement, but for wellbeing, social development and long-term life outcomes. As I said in my first Dáil speech as Minister for Education and Youth, I am determined to tackle this issue.

On the 19th May 2025, I announced a range of new measures to tackle school absenteeism. These measures will be both targeted and universal to improve school attendance. With this suite of measures, I am taking decisive action to address the serious issue of school absenteeism. These measures are rooted in evidence and collaboration and are designed to ensure that every child is supported to attend, engage and succeed in school, to enhance their lifelong opportunities.

The school in which the Deputy refers has been communicated with in the past few days and invited to apply to Tusla Education Support Service to take part in the pilot project.