Committee Reports > List of Committees > Joint > 2000 > Committee on Education and Science > Annual Report of the Joint Committee on Education and Science, 1999

HOUSES OF THE OIREACHTAS

Annual Report of the Joint Committee on Education and Science 1999

January, 2000

Contents

Appendices

Joint Committee on Education and Science

ORDERS OF REFERENCE

Dáil Éireann

13th November, 1997, (** 28th April, 1998),

Ordered:

(1) (a)That a Select Committee, which shall be called the Select Committee on Education and Science, consisting of 14 members of Dáil Éireann (of whom 4 shall constitute a quorum), be appointed to consider such—

(i)Bills the statute law in respect of which is dealt with by the Department of Education and Science, and

(ii)Estimates for Public Services within the aegis of that Department,

as shall be referred to it by Dáil Éireann from time to time.

(b)For the purpose of its consideration of Bills under paragraph (1)(a)(i), the Select Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 78A(1), (2) and (3).

(c)For the avoidance of doubt, by virtue of his or her ex officio membership of the Select Committee in accordance with Standing Order 84(1), the Minister for Education and Science (or a Minister or Minister of State nominated in his or her stead) shall be entitled to vote.

(2) (a)The Select Committee shall be joined with a Select Committee to be appointed by Seanad Éireann to form the Joint Committee on Education and Science to consider—

(i)such public affairs administered by the Department of Education and Science as it may select, including bodies under the aegis of that Department in respect of Government policy,

(ii)such matters of policy for which the Minister in charge of that Department is officially responsible as it may select,

(iii)the strategy statement laid before each House of the Oireachtas by the Minister in charge of that Department pursuant to section 5(2) of the Public Service Management Act, 1997, and shall be authorised for the purposes of section 10 of that Act,

** (iv)such Annual Reports or Annual Reports and Accounts, required by law and laid before either or both Houses of the Oireachtas, of bodies under the aegis of the Department(s) specified in paragraph 2(a)(i), and the overall operational results, statements of strategy and corporate plans of these bodies, as it may select.

Provided that the Joint Committee shall not, at any time, consider any matter relating to such a body which is, which has been, or which is, at that time, proposed to be considered by the Committee of Public Accounts pursuant to the Orders of Reference of that Committee and/or the Comptroller and Auditor General (Amendment) Act, 1993.

Provided further that the Joint Committee shall refrain from inquiring into in public session, or publishing confidential information regarding, any such matter if so requested either by the body or by the Minister in charge of that Department; and

(v)such other matters as may be jointly referred to it from time to time by both Houses of the Oireachtas,

and shall report thereon to both Houses of the Oireachtas.

(b)The quorum of the Joint Committee shall be 5, of whom at least 1 shall be a member of Dáil Éireann and 1 a member of Seanad Éireann.

(c)The Joint Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 78A(1) to (9) inclusive.

(3)The Chairman of the Joint Committee, who shall be a member of Dáil Éireann, shall also be Chairman of the Select Committee.

Seanad Éireann

19th November, 1997, (** 30th April, 1998),

Ordered:

(1) (a)That a Select Committee consisting of 5 members of Seanad Éireann shall be appointed to be joined with a Select Committee of Dáil Éireann to form the Joint Committee on Education and Science to consider—

(i)such public affairs administered by the Department of Education and science as it may select, including bodies under the aegis of that Department in respect of Government policy,

(ii)such matters of policy for which the Minister in charge of that Department is officially responsible as it may select,

(iii)the strategy statement laid before each House of the Oireachtas by the Minister in charge of that Department pursuant to section 5(2) of the Public Service Management Act, 1997, and shall be authorised for the purposes of section 10 of that Act,

** (iv)such Annual Reports or Annual Reports and Accounts, required by law and laid before either or both Houses of the Oireachtas, of bodies under the aegis of the Department(s) specified in paragraph 1(a)(i), and the overall operational results, statements of strategy and corporate plans of these bodies, as it may select.

Provided that the Joint Committee shall not, at any time, consider any matter relating to such a body which is, which has been, or which is, at that time, proposed to be considered by the Committee of Public Accounts pursuant to the Orders of Reference of that Committee and/or the Comptroller and Auditor General (Amendment) Act, 1993.

Provided further that the Joint Committee shall refrain from inquiring into in public session, or publishing confidential information regarding, any such matter if so requested either by the body or by the Minister in charge of that Department; and

(v)such other matters as may be jointly referred to it from time to time by both Houses of the Oireachtas,

and shall report thereon to both Houses of the Oireachtas.

(b)The quorum of the Joint Committee shall be 5, of whom at least 1 shall be a member of Dáil Éireann and 1 a member of Seanad Éireann.

(c)The Joint Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 62A*(1) to (9) inclusive.

(2)The Chairman of the Joint Committee shall be a member of Dáil Éireann

Powers of Committee (Dáil) -- New Standing Order 78A.

That the following be adopted as an additional Standing Order of Dáil Éireann relative to Public Business:

“78A.Without prejudice to the generality of Standing Order 78, the Dáil may confer any or all of the following powers on a Select Committee:

(1)power to take oral and written evidence and to print and publish from time to time minutes of such evidence taken in public before the Select Committee together with such related documents as the Select Committee thinks fit;

(2)power to invite and accept written submissions from interested persons or bodies;

(3)power to appoint sub-Committees and to refer to such sub-Committees any matter comprehended by its orders of reference and to delegate any of its powers to such sub-Committees, including power to report directly to the Dáil;

(4)power to draft recommendations for legislative change and for new legislation;

(5)power to require that a member of the Government or Minister of State shall attend before the Select Committee to discuss policy for which he or she is officially responsible: provided that a member of the Government or Minister of State may decline to attend for stated reasons given in writing to the Select Committee, which may report thereon to the Dáil: and provided further that a member of the Government or Minister of State may request to attend a meeting of the Select Committee to enable him or her to discuss such policy;

(6)power to require that a member of the Government or Minister of State shall attend before the Select Committee to discuss proposed primary or secondary legislation (prior to such legislation being published) for which he or she is officially responsible: provided that a member of the Government or Minister of State may decline to attend for stated reasons given in writing to the Select Committee, which may report thereon to the Dáil: and provided further that a member of the Government or Minister of State may request to attend a meeting of the Select Committee to enable him or her to discuss such proposed legislation;

(7)subject to any constraints otherwise prescribed by law, power to require that principal office holders in bodies in the State which are partly or wholly funded by the State or which are established or appointed by members of the Government or by the Oireachtas shall attend meetings of the Select Committee, as appropriate, to discuss issues for which they are officially responsible: provided that such an office holder may decline to attend for stated reasons given in writing to the Select Committee, which may report thereon to the Dáil;

(8)power to engage, subject to the consent of the Minister for Finance, the services of persons with specialist or technical knowledge, to assist it or any of its sub-Committees in considering particular matters; and

(9)power to undertake travel, subject to—

(a)such rules as may be determined by the sub-Committee on Dáil Reform from time to time under Standing Order 91(3)(b);

(b)such recommendations as may be made by the Working Group of Committee Chairmen under Standing Order 92(2)(a); and

(c)the consent of the Minister for Finance, and normal accounting procedures.”.

Powers of the Select Committee (Seanad) -- Standing Order 65(1) to (9)

“62A.Without prejudice to the generality of Standing Order 64, the Seanad may confer any or all of the following powers on a Select Committee:

(1)power to take oral and written evidence and to print and publish from time to time minutes of such evidence taken in public before the Select Committee together with such related documents as the Select Committee thinks fit;

(2)power to invite and accept written submissions from interested persons or bodies;

(3)power to appoint sub-Committees and to refer to such sub-Committees any matter comprehended by its orders of reference and to delegate any of its powers to such sub-Committees, including power to report directly to the Seanad;

(4)power to draft recommendations for legislative change and for new legislation;

(5)power to require that a member of the Government or Minister of State shall attend before the Select Committee to discuss policy for which he or she is officially responsible: provided that a member of the Government or Minister of State may decline to attend for stated reasons given in writing to the Select Committee, which may report thereon to the Seanad: and provided further that a member of the Government or Minister of State may request to attend a meeting of the Select Committee to enable him or her to discuss such policy;

(6)power to require that a member of the Government or Minister of State shall attend before the Select Committee to discuss proposed primary or secondary legislation (prior to such legislation being published) for which he or she is officially responsible: provided that a member of the Government or Minister of State may decline to attend for stated reasons given in writing to the Select Committee, which may report thereon to the Seanad: and provided further that a member of the Government or Minister of State may request to attend a meeting of the Select Committee to enable him or her to discuss such proposed legislation;

(7)subject to any constraints otherwise prescribed by law, power to require that principal office holders in bodies in the State which are partly or wholly funded by the State or which are established or appointed by members of the Government or by the Oireachtas shall attend meetings of the Select Committee, as appropriate, to discuss issues for which they are officially responsible: provided that such an office holder may decline to attend for stated reasons given in writing to the Select Committee, which may report thereon to the Seanad;

(8)power to engage, subject to the consent of the Minister for Finance, the services of persons with specialist or technical knowledge, to assist it or any of its sub-Committees in considering particular matters; and

(9)power to undertake travel, subject to—

(a)such rules as may be determined by the Committee on Procedure and Privileges from time to time under Standing Order 84(1)(e);

(b)such recommendations as may be made by the Working Group of Committee Chairmen under Standing Order 89; and

(c)the consent of the Minister for Finance, and normal accounting procedures.”

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND SCIENCE

List of Members

1999 Annual Report of the Joint Committee on Education and Science

Foreword

The Joint Committee on Education and Science is pleased to report to Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann on the work which it carried out during 1999.

Some of this work culminated during the year in the publication of three substantial reports on key areas of educational policy. Four more reports are in course of preparation and are expected to be published next year: the Committee expects that these will contribute in a very positive way to the formulation and development of Government policy. The level of productivity is evidence of a vigorous and active Committee and is a tribute to the enthusiasm and expertise of its members.

The members are committed to responding to the new challenges which arise in the rapidly changing situation in which Ireland finds itself and this commitment is evidenced by new areas for examination which have been identified in the Committee’s work programme for the coming year. Issues such as the provision of educational services in a multi-ethnic environment and aspects of the interaction between education and industry are among those to be examined.

The Committee acknowledges the contribution which various individuals and organisations have made to its work and wishes to thank, in particular, the Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Micheál Martin, the Minister of State, Deputy Willie O’Dea, the Department’s Secretary-General, Mr. John Dennehy and his officials: their co-operation and interaction with the Committee is greatly appreciated.

Michael P. Kitt, T.D.,

Chairman.

1999 Annual Report of the Joint Committee on Education and Science

1. Procedural Context.

Dáil Standing Order 79A(6) and Seanad Standing Order 69(6) provide, inter alia, that -

“..such Select Committee shall, on the anniversary of its appointment in each year following the year of such appointment, make an annual report to Dáil Éireann (Seanad Éireann) which shall detail -

(i)the work carried out by the Select Committee; and

(ii)the work in progress by the Select Committee,

and may include, if the Select Committee deems appropriate, the report on its procedures and its role (in which case, a copy of the annual report shall be forwarded to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges), the work programme and minutes of proceedings referred to in paragraphs (3), (4) and (5) respectively of this Standing Order.”.

Paragraphs (3), (4) and (5) of these Standing Orders require each Select Committee -

-to review its procedures, and its role generally, on an ongoing basis and to report at least once in each year to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges on these matters,

-at annual intervals, to prepare a work programme and to lay such programme before the Dáil/Seanad, and

-from time to time, as the Select Committee sees fit, to lay minutes of its proceedings before the Dáil/Seanad.

2. Procedural Report.

The Joint Committee has reviewed its procedures, and its role generally, and is satisfied with these.

3. Work of the Committee.

The Joint Committee on Education and Science was established following orders of the Dáil of 13 November, 1997 and of the Seanad of 19 November, 1997 which provided for the establishment of Select Committees of each House.

During 1999, the Joint Committee met on nineteen occasions. The Dáil Select Committee met on five occasions. The work of the Joint Committee during the year was governed by an agreed Work Programme which reconciled the needs to be both carefully focused and sufficiently comprehensive. The Work Programme is appended to this Report. The work of the Dáil Select Committee was driven by the referral to it by the Dáil of bills and estimates for public services.

(i) Matters considered by the Joint Committee.

The Report on Special Education, the preparatory work for which was set out in the 1998 Annual Report, was brought before the Joint Committee by the rapporteurs, Deputies Paul McGrath and John Moloney, early in 1999. Following a process of consideration of the draft, the report was agreed by the Joint Committee on 5 May, 1999 and was published.

The Report on Early School Leaving, which was drafted by Deputy Richard Bruton and Senator Fintan Coogan, was agreed by the Joint Committee on 25 May, 1999 following a process which, in addition to the work done by the rapporteurs, involved five meetings by the Joint Committee with eleven interested organisations. The report was subsequently published. Later in the year, the Committee followed up on this topic when it met representatives of the Mol an Óige Project to examine the results of their research into early school leaving in North Tipperary.

In the course of its examination of the school transport issue, the Joint Committee met five times and discussed the matters involved with nine organisations. This work supplemented the work on consultation and drafting carried out by the rapporteurs, Deputies Denis Naughten and Trevor Sargent, whose Report on School Transport in Ireland was adopted by the Joint Committee on 9 November, 1999.

The three reports published by the Committee were sent to the Minister for Education and Science. The Report on School Transport was also sent to the Minister for Public Enterprise and the Minister for the Environment and Local Government.

During 1999, in the context of its consideration of the role of music in education, the Joint Committee met with representatives of six organisations in the course of four meetings and a short visit to Belfast. The rapporteur, Deputy Brian Hayes, is finalising a draft report which will be considered by the Joint Committee during the year.

Deputies Richard Bruton and Denis Naughten have been appointed as rapporteurs on the adequacy of science and technology research programmes in the context of the interaction between education and industry. The Joint Committee will commence its public hearings on this matter during the present year.

Work is ongoing in relation to the two reports being drafted for preliminary consideration by the Sub-Committee on Educational Disadvantage. Senator Ann Ormonde is rapporteur in relation to the report on educational disadvantage at pre-school and primary school levels. A report on education for young offenders and extremely disruptive children is being prepared by Senator Máirín Quill, the Committee’s rapporteur on that issue.

In addition to work directly related to the preparation of reports, the Joint Committee met during 1999 with representatives of the following organisations:

(a)the Higher Education Authority, to discuss recent developments, current work and future plans;

(b)the Department of Education and Science, to discuss the Green Paper on Adult Education;

(c)the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, to discuss the activities of the Council;

(d)the Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities, to discuss the role and work of the organisation;

(e)Fochoiste Teanga, Cultúir agus Oiliúna Údaráis na Gaeltachta, to discuss the role and work of that sub-committee;

(f)Roscommon Partnership Company, to examine the results of a survey on issues concerning primary schools in Co. Roscommon;

(g)the Union of Students in Ireland, to discuss priority areas for third level education;

(h)the Mol an Óige Project, to examine the results of research into early school leaving in North Tipperary.

(ii) Matters considered by the Dáil Select Committee.

The Dáil Select Committee met in December, 1998, to consider supplementary estimates for the Education group of votes. During 1999 the Select Committee met five times for the purposes of carrying out the following work, which it completed:

(a)consideration of Committee Stage of the Qualifications (Education and Training) Bill, 1999;

(b)consideration of Revised Estimates for Public Services in respect of Votes 26 to 29 inclusive, together with a Supplementary Estimate in respect of Vote 26;

(c)consideration of Supplementary Estimates in respect of Votes 26 to 29 inclusive;

(d)taking of evidence in relation to the Education (Welfare) Bill, 1999 [Seanad]: the Select Committee heard submissions from representatives of the Home Education Network and the Coalition of Irish Home Schools.

The only outstanding work before the Select Committee is consideration of Committee Stage of the Education (Welfare) Bill, 1999 [Seanad] which was referred to the Select Committee by Dáil Éireann on 17 November, 1999.

(iii) Visiting Delegations.

In November, 1998, the Joint Committee received a delegation of the Standing Committee on Education of the South African North-West Province Legislature which wished to examine aspects of the Irish system of education.

The Joint Committee met in June, 1999, with members of the Committee for School, Youth and Sport of the Parliament of the German Federal State of Baden-Wurttemburg who were visiting Ireland as part of an information tour through member states of the European Union. The topic for discussion was the Irish education system.

(iv) Visits by the Joint Committee.

On 11 October, 1999, three members of the Joint Committee visited Belfast in order to inform the Joint Committee’s report on the role of music in education. The delegation met with the Secretary and other senior officials of the Department of Education for Northern Ireland. A meeting was also held with officials of the INTO and the delegation visited St. Mary’s University College and Stranmillis University College.

From 24 to 30 October, 1999, a delegation visited California (i) primarily to examine the situation there in relation to the provision of education in a multi-ethnic society, and (ii) to examine the use of technology in education. The six member delegation visited San Francisco, Sacramento and San José and met with -

-the President of San Francisco State University and several of his faculty colleagues,

-officials at the California Department of Education,

-officials of WestEd, a state-funded organisation which provides expert advice and assistance to schools and school districts,

-the Director of the San José Conservation Corps, a work/continuing education programme for early school leavers, and

-officials of Oakland School District.

The group visited a number of schools which offered the opportunity to see at first hand the challenges to be faced in the areas under examination and the way in which these were dealt with. The Joint Committee proposes to continue consideration of the provision of education in a multi-ethnic society during 2000.

(vi) Work Programme 2000.

The Joint Committee’s Work Programme for 2000 will be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas.

Michael P. Kitt, T.D.,

Chairman.

January, 2000.

Work Programme 1999

A. JOINT COMMITTEE

1.Continue the work the sub-Committee in relation to the evaluation of the Department of Education and Science’s policies designed to combat educational disadvantage at Pre-School and Primary School levels and the implementation of those policies.

2.Continue the work of the sub-Committee in relation to the consideration of the policies of the Department of Education and Science in relation to the provision of education for young offenders and extremely disruptive children, and the implementation of those policies.

3.Conclusion of the Committee’s report in relation to Special Education, the hearings in relation to which concluded in 1998, and further consideration of other specific areas of Special Education.

4.Continued consideration of the Department of Education and Science’s policies regarding early school leavers and the implementation of the Department’s schemes designed to meet their needs.

5.Conclusion of the Committee’s report on its consideration of the policies of the Department of Education and Science relating to School Transport, the hearings in relation to which concluded in late 1998.

6.Consideration of the role of music in Education.

7.Consideration of matters relevant to Curriculum Development.

8.Consideration of the recent Green paper on Adult Education and an examination of the policies proposed therein.

9.Consideration of the work of specified agencies under the aegis of the Department of Education and Science.

8.Policy / Administration

Consideration of progress to date in relation to issues identified in the Strategy Statement of the Department which was published in June 1998

9.Such other matters as the Committee may decide.

10.Travel

As considered necessary by the Committee having regard to its financial allocation.

B. DÁIL SELECT COMMITTEE

Consideration of:-

-Bills referred to the Committee by Dáil Éireann

-Estimates for Public Services under the aegis of the Department of Education and Science.

The above work programme, for 1999, was agreed by the Joint Committee at its meeting on 12 January 1999.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 3 November 1998

1.The Joint Committee met at 5.02 pm in Room G.2., Kildare House and went into private session.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy John V. Farrelly and Senator Máirín Quill.

3.Minutes

The Minutes of the meeting of 20 October 1998 were agreed to. There were no matters arising.

4.School Transport

The meeting was attended by Mr. Niall O’Dea, Assistant Principal, accompanied by Gráinne Whelan, HEO, School Transport Section. Mr O’Dea made an oral presentation to the Committee in relation to School Transport.

Following the presentation a question and answer session ensued in which Ms Whelan participated.

5.Other Business

It was agreed that the Committee would continue its consideration of the issue of School Transport at its next meeting on 17 November 1998, and the following would be invited to attend on that date:-

Bus Éireann

PAMBO (Private Association Motor Bus owners)

FOTO

Malahide Coaches

Dublin Cycling Campaign (safe routes)

.6Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 6.32 p.m. until Wednesday 11 November, 1998.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Wednesday, 11 November 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in public session at 2.40 pm in Room G.24, Kildare House.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:-

3.Visiting Delegation of the Standing Committee on Education of the South African North-West Province Legislature.

The South African delegation consisted of:-

Hon. R. De Wet-Ramon (Chairperson of Education Standing Committee)

Hon. E. Mayisela (Deputy Chairman)

Hon. P. Malan

Ms. D. Mooketsi (Committee Administrator)

and were accompanied by:-

His Excellency Pierre Dietrichsen, South African Ambassador

Mr. Hugo Lambrechts, First Secretary

The delegation wished to know about the Irish education system as their research had indicated it was one of the most successful education systems. The Members outlined the background, present states including strengths and weaknesses, and future direction of Irish education in an exchange of views with the visiting delegation.

4.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 3.40 p.m. until Tuesday, 17 November, 1998.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Wednesday, 17 November 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in at 5.05 pm in Room G.2., Kildare House and went into private session.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:-

Apologies were received from Senators Joe O’Toole and Máirín Quill

3.Private Session

4.School Transport

The following groups were represented at the meeting:-

Dublin Cycling Campaign, Éamonn Ryan, Chairman

Apologies were received from Mr. Jimmy Kavanagh, Malahide Coaches, who had been invited but could not attend.

Each group gave a presentation and this was followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

4.Other Business

It was agreed that the Committee would continue its consideration of the issue of School Transport at its next meeting on 1 December 1998, and the following would be invited to attend on that date:-

National Parents’ Council Primary and Post Primary Branches

Mr Joe Langan, Transport Liaison Officer, Co. Mayo VEC

Representative from the Department of the Environment re: Road worthiness of vehicles etc

5.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 6.40 p.m. until Tuesday, 1 December, 1998.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Wednesday, 1 December 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in at 5.10 pm in Room G.2., Kildare House in public session.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:-

3.School Transport

The following groups were represented at the meeting:-

National Parents Council Primary Branch

Ms. Geraldine Braiden

Ms. Lyn McDonald

Ms. Fionnuala Kilfeather

National Parents Council Post Primary Branch

Mr. Seán Grehan

Mr. John White.

Mr. Joe Langan, Transport Liaison Officer, Co. Mayo V.E.C.

Mr. Des Coppins, Vehicle Control Section, Dept. of the Environment.

Each group gave a presentation and this was followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

4.Other Business

It was agreed that the Committee would resume its consideration of Early School Leavers at its next meeting on 15 December 1998, and the following would be invited to attend on that date:-

Mr. Scott Bolt, Marino Institute of Education

Sr. Teresa McCormack, Conference of Religious in Ireland.

5.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 6.33 p.m. until Tuesday, 15 December, 1998.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Wednesday, 15 December 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in at 5.06 pm in Room G.2., Kildare House in public session.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Brian Hayes and Brian O’Shea and Senators Fintan Coogan, Ann Ormonde and Máirín Quill

4.Minutes

The Minutes of the meeting of 1 December, 1998 were agreed to. There were no matters arising.

5Early School Leavers

Presentations were made by Sr Theresa McCormack, CORI (who was accompanied by Dr Peter Archer, who participated) and Mr Scott Boldt, Marino Institute of Education (who was accompanied by Ms Mandy Douglas, who participated). The presentations were each followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

6.Other Business

It was agreed that the Committee would meet on Tuesday 12 January 1999 at 2.30pm to continue its discussions in relation to Early School Leavers. The work programme for 1999 would also be discussed on that date.

7.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 6.35 p.m. until Tuesday, 12 January, 1998.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 12 January 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 2.35 pm in private session and at 2.45 pm in public session in Room G5, Kildare House.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

An apology for inability to attend was received from Deputy Brian O’Shea

3.Minutes

The minutes of meeting of 15 December, 1999 were agreed to.

4.Early School Leavers

The following representatives of the teaching trade unions attended the meeting:-

Mr. Michael Corley, President, ASTI

Mr. Charles Lennon, General Secretary, ASTI

Mr. John White, Deputy General Secretary, ASTI

Ms. Deirbhile Ní Craith, Equality and Education Policy, INTO

Mr. Tony Bates, INTO

Mr. Jim Dorney, General Secretary, TUI

Mr. Billy Fitzpatrick, Education/Research Officer, TUI

Mr. Joe Carolan, President, TUI

Mr. John MacGabhann, Vice-President, TUI

The first two representatives of each union made oral presentations to the Members and these were followed by a question and answer session between the Members and the representatives.

5Private Session

6.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 4.15 pm until 2.30 pm on Tuesday, 26 January, 1999

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 26 January 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 2.30pm in public session and at 2.33pm in private session in Room G5, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senators Ann Ormonde, Joe O’Toole and Máirín Quill.

3.Minutes

The minutes of meeting of 12 January 1999 were agreed to.

4.Next meeting

It was agreed that the Joint Committee would meet at 5.00 pm on 9 February 1999 to take oral evidence from representatives of the National Parents’ Councils in relation to early school leavers.

5Private Session

6.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned to 5.00pm on Tuesday, 9 February 1999.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 9 February 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in public session at 5.05pm in Room G2 Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senators Fintan Coogan and Máirín Quill.

3.Minutes

The minutes of meeting of 26 January 1999 were agreed to.

4.Early School Leavers, Presentations by National Parents Councils.

The following representatives of the National Parents Councils made oral presentations on the topic of Early School Leavers:-

Ms. Fionnuala Kilfeather, National Co-ordinator, National Parents Council - Primary

Ms. Geraldine Graydon, National Parents Council - Primary

Ms. Rose Tully, President, National Parents Council - Post Primary

Mr. Michael O’Regan, President, Parents - Post Primary Association for Vocational Schools and Community Colleges

The presentations were followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

5.Correspondence

A letter from the Managing Director, Bus Éireann was discussed and the reply was agreed to.

6.Items for next meeting

It was agreed that representatives of the Higher Education Authority would be invited to the next meeting of the Committee on 23 February 1999 to discuss recent developments, current work and future plans and that the Special Education report would also be discussed.

7.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 6.45pm until 5.00pm on Tuesday, 23 February 1999.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 9 March 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in Public Session at 5.05 pm and in private session from 5.07 pm to 5.15 pm in Room G2, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

An apology for inability to attend was received from Deputy John V. Farrelly.

Deputy Mattie Brennan also attended the meeting.

3.Minutes

The minutes of meeting of 9 February 1999 were agreed to.

4.Higher Education Authority Presentation

The following representatives of the Higher Education Authority attended the meeting:-

Dr. Don Thornhill, Chairman

Mr. John Hayden, Secretary/Chief Executive

Ms. Mary Kerr, Deputy Secretary

Ms. Triona Dooney, Assistant Secretary

Mr. Stewart Roche, Management Accountant

Mr. Padraic Mellett, Senior Executive Officer

Mr. Gerry O’Sullivan, Senior Executive Officer

Ms. Jennifer Gygax, Senior Executive Officer

Dr. Thornhill made an oral presentation to the Members which was followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

5.Correspondence

The Joint Committee agreed to a meeting with the Language, Culture and Training Sub-Committee of Údarás na Gaeltachta to discuss education on the Gaeltacht on a date to be announced.

The Joint Committee also agreed the reply to a letter from TSSA, the union for people in transport and travel, requesting a meeting and sight of submissions and records of Committee proceedings on School Transport.

6Private Session

7.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 6.30 pm until 5.00 pm on Tuesday 23 March 1999 for meeting with Minister for State, Willie O’Dea, T.D. to discuss the Green Paper on Adult Education and the policies proposed therein.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 23 March 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in public session at 5.15 p.m. in Room G2 Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Michael P. Kitt, Richard Bruton and Senators Ann Ormond and Máirín Quill.

3.Minutes

The minutes of meeting of 9 March 1999 were agreed to.

4.Green Paper on Adult Education.

The following representatives of the Department of Education and Science attended the meeting:

Mr. Jack O’Brien, Assistant Secretary,

Ms. Margaret Kelly, Principal Officer.

Mr. O’Brien made an oral presentation to the members which was followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

5.Next Meeting

It was agreed to invite representatives of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment to the next meeting.

6.Adjournment

The Joint Committee adjourned at 6.00 p.m. sine die.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 20 April 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in private session at 5.10 p.m. and in public Session at 5.20 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Trevor Sargent and Senator Joe O’Toole.

3.Minutes

The minutes of meeting of 23 March 1999 were agreed to.

4.Presentation by National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (N.C.C.A.) Representatives.

The following representatives of N.C.C.A. attended the meeting:

Dr. Caroline Hussey, Chairperson,

Mr. Albert Ó Ceallaigh, Chief Executive.

Dr. Hussey and Mr. Ó Ceallaigh made oral presentations to the members covering the brief of the Council and a progress report on its activities. This was followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

5.Next Meeting

It was agreed to invite representatives of the Language, Culture and Training sub-Committee of Udarás na Gaeltachta and the National Dyslexia Association to the next meeting of the Committee on Wednesday, 5 May 1999 at 5.00 p.m..

6Private Session

7.Adjournment

The Joint Committee adjourned at 6.32 p.m. until 5.00 p.m. on 5 May 1999.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Wednesday, 5 May 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in public session at 5.05 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House, Kildare Street and went into private session at 5.06 p.m. to 5.30 p.m.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Deputy Dinny McGinley also attended the meeting.

3.Minutes

The minutes of meeting of 20 April 1999 were agreed to.

4.Presentation by the Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities (A.C.L.D.).

The following representatives of A.C.L.D. attended the meeting:

Ms. Mary Mahon, National President A.C.L.D.

Ms. Anne Hughes, Administrator,

Mr. Alan Sayles, Education Consultant,

Ms. Aisling Oman.

Ms. Hughes, Ms. Oman and Mr. Sayles made oral presentations to the members. This was followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

5.Presentation by Fhochoiste Teanga, Cultúir agus Oiliúna Údarás na Gaeltachta

The following representatives of the Fhochoiste attended the meeting:

Bort an Údaráis - Ionadaíocht.

Micheál Ó Scanaill, Cathaoirleach an Fhochoiste.

Connie Ní Fhátharta, Leas-Cathaoirleach an Fhochoiste.

Pádraig Ó Dochartaigh

Sorcha Nic Dhonnacha

Feidhmeanniagh an Údaráis

Sorcha Nic Dhonncha, Bainisteoir Forbartha Cultúir agus Teanga.

Fionbarra Ó Muirí, Bainisteori Seirbhísí Oiliúna.

Micheál Ó Scanaill, Connie Ní Fhátharta and Pádraig Ó Dochartaigh made oral presentations to the members. This was followed by a question and answer session with the members.

6Private Session

7.Adjournment

The Joint Committee adjourned at 7.10 p.m. until 5.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 18 May 1999, for presentation by Department Representatives on the role of Music in Education.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 18 May 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in public session at 5.15 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

3.Minutes

The minutes of meeting of 5 May 1999 were agreed to.

4.Presentation on the Role of Music in Education

The following representatives of the Department of Eduction and Science attended the meeting:

Mr. Pat Kitterick, Senior Inspector,

Mr. Jerome Leonard, Post-Primary Inspector.

Mr. Kitterick made an oral presentation to the members on Music Education at Primary level and Mr. Leonard made a presentation tot he Members on Music Education at Post-Primary level. These presentations were followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

5.Any other Business

(i)Draft Report on Early School Leavers

It was agreed to meet in Private Session on Tuesday 25 May 1999 in G24 to approve the report on Early School Leaving.

(ii)Meeting on 1 June 1999

It was agreed that RTE be invited to the meeting on Tuesday 1 June 1999 to discuss the Role of Music in Education.

(iii)Meeting with Roscommon Partnership Committee

It was agreed that the committee would meet with the Roscommon Partnership Committee on Tuesday 15 June 1999 to discuss its survey on Primary Schools in County Roscommon.

(iv)Meeting with members of State Parliament of the German Federal State of Baden Wurttemberg

It was agreed to meet the German State Parliament Representatives on Thursday, 24 June 1999 at 12.00 noon in Room G24 to discuss the Education System in Ireland.

6.Adjournment

The Joint Committee adjourned at 6.30 p.m. until 5.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 25 May 1999

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 25 May 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 5.00 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Members Present

The following Members were present:-

3.Draft Report on Early School Leaving

The Chairman brought forward the Draft Report for consideration.

Draft Report agreed to.

4.Adjournment

The Joint Committee adjourned at 5.10 p.m. until 5.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 1 June, 1999.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 1 June 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in public session at 5.07 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Fintan Coogan.

3.Minutes

The minutes of the meeting of 18 May 1999 were agreed to.

4.Private Session:

5.Adjournment

The Joint Committee adjourned at 5.50 p.m. until 5.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 15 June 1999

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 15 June 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in public session at 5.11 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

3.Minutes

The minutes of the meeting of 1 June 1999 were agreed to and signed by the Chairman.

4.Presentation by the Roscommon Partnership Company Ltd

Ms. Eileen Fahey, Ms. Eithne Drudy, Ms. Patricia Murphy-Byrne, Mr. Michael Fahey, Ms. Mary O’Connell, Ms. Dympna Lambert and Ms. Nicola Moran attended on behalf of the Roscommon Partnership Company.

They presented the results of a survey which had been carried out on the primary schools in Roscommon covering issues including remedial teaching, drop out rates, accommodation.

A question and answer session followed with the members covering issues including early school leavers, dual enrolment, use of computers, remedial services and the problems caused by time taken travelling for specialist teachers in a large rural area.

It was agreed that the Joint Committee would send a copy of the Report on the survey carried out by the Roscommon Partnership Company to the Minister for Education and request his comments on it.

The delegation presented the Joint Committee with letters from parents in the area.

5.Correspondence

The correspondence received from Mr. William Stewart was discussed and it was agreed to send this letter to the Minister for Education and request his observations on it.

6.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 6.35 until 24 June 1999 at 12.00 noon.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Thursday, 24 June 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in public session at 12.08 p.m. in Room G24, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies John V. Farrelly and Trevor Sargent.

3.Visiting Delegation

The Members met with Members of the Committee for School, Youth and Sport of the State Parliament of the German Federal State of Baden - Wurttemberg who were visiting Ireland as part of an information tour through European Member States for a discussion on the Education System in Ireland.

4.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 1.00 p.m. until 5.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 29 June, 1999.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 29 June 1999

1.The Joint Committee met in private session at 5.05 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House, Kildare Street.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

3.Private Session

4.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 5.17 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 13 July, 1999.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 13 July, 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 2.05 p.m. in Room G24, Kildare House.

In the unavoidable absence of the Chairman, the vice-Chairman, Deputy Farrelly, took the Chair.

It was agreed to go into private session.

2.Attendance

The following Members attended:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Michael P. Kitt (Chairman), Michael D. Higgins, Paul McGrath, Trevor Sargent, and Senator Fintan Coogan.

3.Private Session

4.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 3.05 p.m. sine die.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 7 September, 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 3.00 p.m. in Room 114, Kildare House.

It was agreed to go into private session for the duration of the meeting.

2.Attendance

The following Members attended:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Richard Bruton, Brian Hayes and Cecilia Keaveney and Senator Máirín Quill.

3.Private Session

4.Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 3.30 p.m. sine die.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 12th October, 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 5.33 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House.

2.Attendance.

The following Members attended:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Richard Bruton and Senators Joe O’Toole and Máirín Quill.

3.Minutes.

The minutes of the meeting of 7th September, 1999, were agreed and signed by the Chairman.

4.Presentation on the role of music in education by representatives of the National Concert Hall.

The Joint Committee heard presentations on the role of music in education by the following representatives of the National Concert Hall -

Ms. Judith Woodworth, Director,

Ms. Lucy Champion, Education and Outreach Manager, and

Ms. Jacqui Mahon, Public Relations and Marketing Manager.

The representatives dealt with the policy and practice of the National Concert Hall in relation to music in education, the way in which the NCH interacted with children and teachers and pointed to the limitations imposed by insufficient State funding. The visitors dealt with issues raised by Members.

It was agreed to go into private session in order to deal with the remaining items on the agenda.

5.Private Session.

6.Adjournment.

The meeting adjourned at 6.36 p.m. until 5 p.m. on 9th November.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 9th November, 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 5.04 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House.

2.Attendance.

The following Members attended:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Joe O’Toole.

It was agreed to go into private session in order to deal with the minutes of the last meeting and any matters arising from them.

3.Private Session

4.Presentation by the Union of Students in Ireland on priority areas for third level education.

The Joint Committee heard presentations on priority areas for third level education from Mr. Philip Madden, President and Mr. Ian Russell, Education Officer, of the Union of Students in Ireland. Mr. Darren McCallig, the USI’s Communications and Research Executive, also attended.

A division having been demanded in the Dáil, it was agreed to suspend the meeting until immediately after the declaration of the result of the division. Accordingly, the meeting was suspended at 5.32 p.m.

The meeting resumed at 5.47 p.m.

A further division having been demanded in the Dáil, it was agreed to suspend the meeting until immediately after the declaration of the result of the division. Accordingly, the meeting was suspended at 5.48 p.m.

The meeting resumed at 6.25 p.m.

The delegation dealt with questions put to them by members.

It was agreed to go into private session in order to deal with the remaining items on the agenda.

5.Private Session

6.Private Session.

7.Adjournment.

The meeting adjourned at 6.55 p.m. until 5 p.m. on 23rd November.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 23rd November, 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 5.04 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House.

2.Attendance.

The following Members attended:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Richard Bruton and Senators Fintan Coogan and Joe O’Toole.

It was agreed to go into private session in order to deal with the minutes of the last meeting and any matters arising from them.

3.Private Session.

The minutes of the meeting of 9th November, 1999, were agreed and signed by the Chairman.

4.Presentation by representatives of the Mol an Óige project on their research into early school leaving.

The Joint Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Dan Condren, Project Manager, on the research and findings of the Mol an Óige project, an EU funded project promoted by North Tipperary VEC in partnership with a number of other agencies, which aimed to examine the causes of early school leaving in North Tipperary and to develop a model of interventions for dealing with this problem. Mr. Luke Murtagh, CEO of North Tipperary VEC, Mr. Philip Mudge, Community Resource Facilitator, and Ms. Rose Tully, Ms. Norberta O’Gorman and Ms. Mary Slattery, Project Development Officers, also attended. The visitors dealt with questions put to them by members.

It was agreed to go into private session in order to deal with the remaining items on the agenda.

5.Private Session.

6.Private Session

7.Adjournment.

The meeting adjourned at 6.35 p.m. until 5 p.m. on 7th December.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Tuesday, 7th December, 1999

1.The Joint Committee met at 5.15 p.m. in Room G2, Kildare House.

2.Attendance.

The following Members attended:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Joe O’Toole.

It was agreed to go into private session in order to deal with the minutes of the last meeting and any matters arising from them.

3.Private Session.

4.Presentation by representatives of RTÉ on the role of music in education.

The Joint Committee heard a presentation by the following representatives of RTÉ on the role of music in education:

Mr. Niall Doyle, Director of Music,

Mr. Kevin Healy, Director of Public Affairs, and

Mr. Adrian Moyne, Special Assistant to the Director General.

The visitors dealt with questions put to them by members.

It was agreed to go into private session in order to deal with the remaining items on the agenda.

5.Any Other Business.

There being no other business, the meeting adjourned at 6 p.m. until 18th January. It was agreed that the Annual Report for 1999 and the Work Programme for 2000 be considered on that date.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Sub-Committee on Educational Disadvantage

Proceedings of the Sub-Committee

Tuesday 10 November 1998

1.The Sub-Committee met in public session at 3.37 pm in Room G24, Kildare House.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Apologies were received from Deputy John Farrelly.

3.Temporary Chairman

In the absence of the Chairman, following nomination by Deputy Carey, Deputy Brian O’Shea took the chair.

4.Minutes

The minutes of the meeting on 29 September 1998 were agreed. There were no matters arising.

5.Educational Disadvantage

Oral presentations on educational disadvantage were given by:

Mr. Miles Shelly, Manor St. John Special Youth Project, Waterford

Ms. Noreen Hayes, Early Start Programme, DIT, Cathal Brugha Street, Dublin 1

Fr. Joe O’Reilly, Director, St. Josephs, Ferryhouse, Clonmel.

Mr. Tony Bates and Mr. Bobby McCormack attended with Fr. Joe O’Reilly, who also presented a 10 minute video on St. Joseph’s.

The presentations were followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

6.Next Meeting

It was agreed that the following be invited to the next meeting to discuss educational disadvantage:

Owen Metcalfe, Department of Health and a representative of the National Parent’s Council (Primary Section).

7.Adjournment

The Sub-Committee adjourned at 5.05 pm sine die

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Sub-Committee on Educational Disadvantage

Proceedings of the Sub-Committee

Tuesday 8 December 1998

1.The Sub-Committee met in public session at 3.09 pm in Room G24, Kildare House.

2.Attendance

The following Members were present:

Also in attendance: Eddie Wade, T.D.

3.Temporary Chairman

In the absence of the Chairman, following nomination by Deputy Carey, Deputy Brian O’Shea took the chair.

4.Minutes

The minutes of the meeting on 10 November 1998 were agreed. There were no matters arising.

5.Educational Disadvantage

Oral presentations on educational disadvantage were given by:

Mr Owen Medcalfe, Chief Education Officer, Health Promotion Unit

National Parents Council, Primary Branch:

Ann Colgan, Manager of Training and Education Programme

Mary Killeen, European Officer

The presentations were followed by a question and answer session with the Members.

6.Report on Educational Disadvantage

It was agreed that the Chairman would liaise with Senator Ormonde in relation to the report she is drafting on the Committee’s deliberations on educational disadvantage. The Chairman is also to ascertain whether further witnesses are to be called in relation to this issue.

7.Adjournment

The Sub-Committee adjourned at 4.15 pm sine die

Imeachtaí An Roghchoiste

Proceedings of the Select Committee

Dé Céadaoin, 9 Nollaig, 1998

Wednesday, 9 December, 1998

1.Chruinnigh an Coiste ar 3.07 p.m.

2.Comhaltaí i Láthair.

Bhí na comhaltaí seo a leanas i láthair:-

Na Teachtaí: Micheál P. Ó Ceit (i gCeannas), Micheál Ó Máirtín (Aire ag an Roinn Oideachais agus Eolaíochta), Liam Ó Deaghaidh (Aire Stáit ag an Roinn Oideachais agus Eolaíochta), Risteárd de Briotún, Pádraig Ó Carú, Máire Ní Ainifín, Brian Hayes, Síle Ní Chaomhánaigh, Seán Ó Maoldomhnaigh, Brian Ó Sé agus Eamonn Mac Uaid

3.Meastacháin i gcomhair Seirbhísí Poiblí.

Bhreithnigh an Roghchoiste Meastacháin Forlíontach i gcomhair Seirbhísí Poiblí don bhliain dar críoch 31 Nollaig, 1998, i leith:-

Vóta 26 (Oifig an Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta) (Meastachán Forlíontach)

Vóta 27 (Oideachas Céadleibhéil) (Meastachán Forlíontach)

Vóta 28 (Oideachas Dara Leibhéal agus Breisoideachas) (Meastachán Forlíontach)

Vóta 29 (Oideachas Triú Leibhéal agus Breisoideachas) (Meastachán Forlíontach)

4.Tuachtaireacht ó Choiste.

De réir Bhuan-Ordú 79B cuireadh an teachtaireacht seo a leanas chuig Cléireach na Dála:-

The Select Committee on Education and Science has completed its consideration of the following Estimates for Public Services for the service of the year ending on the 31st Day of December, 1998:

Vote 26 (Office of the Minister for Education and Science)(Supplementary Estimate)

Vote 27 (First-Level Education) (Supplementary Estimate)

Vote 28 (Second-Level and Further Education) (Supplementary Estimate)

Vote 29 (Third-Level and Further Education) (Supplementary Estimate)

5.Athlá.

Chuaigh an Coiste ar athló ar 4.47 pm. sine die.

1.The Committee met at 3.07 p.m.

2.Members Present.

The following members were present:-

Deputies: Michael P. Kitt (in the Chair), Micheál Martin (Minister for Education and Science), Willie O’Dea (Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science), Richard Bruton, Pat Carey, Mary Hanafin, Brian Hayes, Cecilia Keaveney, John Moloney, Brian O’Shea and Eddie Wade.

3.Estimates for Public Services.

The Select Committee considered Estimates for Public Services for the year ending 31st December, 1998, in respect of:-

Vote 26 (Office of the Minister for Education and Science)(Supplementary Estimate)

Vote 27 (First-Level Education) (Supplementary Estimate)

Vote 28 (Second-Level and Further Education) (Supplementary Estimate)

Vote 29 (Third-Level and Further Education) (Supplementary Estimate)

4.Message from Committee.

In accordance with Standing Order 79B the following message was sent to the Clerk of the Dáil:-

5.Adjournment.

The Committee adjourned at 4.47 pm. sine die.

IMEACHTAÍ AN ROGHCHOISTE

PROCEEDINGS OF THE DÁIL SELECT COMMITTEE

Minutes of the proceedings of the following meetings of the Select Committee are being prepared by the Committees’ Procedural Section and will be published when finalised:

Attendance - Joint Committee on Education and Science

A: Apologies Sent

*: Substitute for all/part of meeting.

(1) Deputy Higgins appointed in subsitution for Deputy Brian O’Shea on 24/02/99

Information within brackets relates to attendance by Deputy O’Shea

Attendance - Joint Committee (continued)

A: Apologies Sent

*: Substitute for all/part of meeting.

Attendance List

Dáil Select Committee

A: Apologies sent.

*: Substitute for all/part of meeting.

(1): Deputy Higgins appointed in substitution for Deputy Brian O’Shea on 24/02/99

Information within brackets relates to attendance by Deputy O’Shea

Attendance List

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Sub-Committee on Educational Disadvantage

* subsequently renumbered as Standing Order 65

* Sean Fleming appointed in substitution for Mary Hanafin on 11/04/00

* Róisin Shortall appointed in substitution for Deputy Michael D. Higgins on 07/06/00

# Appointed in substitution for Deputies Brian Hayes & Richard Bruton on 29/06/00