Apologies for inability to attend has been received from Deputy Paul Gogarty and Senator Joanna Tuffy.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session.

4.Item Discussed in Private Session.

5.Item Discussed in Private Session.

6.Item Discussed in Private Session.

7.Item Discussed in Private Session.

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with Representatives of the Union of Secondary Students to discuss the work of the Union and related issues.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of the Union of Secondary Students

Ms. Hazel Nolan, President of the USS, Mr. Oisín O’Reilly, Vice-President of the USS and Ms Claire McNamara, Secretary of the USS.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms. Nolan then made a presentation on behalf of the USS.

A Question and Answer session with members followed

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations.

9.Adjournment

There being no other business, The Joint Committee was adjourned at 1.20 p.m.until Thursday, 27^th January 2005.

________________________

Michael Moynihan

Chairman

27 January 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee

Thursday 27 January 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 9.36 a.m. in Committee Room 3 LH2000

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Olwyn Enright, Máire Hoctor, Thomas McEllistrim and Senator Joanna Tuffy.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with representatives of AONTAS — the National Association of Adult Education - and the Department of Education and Science.

The meeting had been convened to discuss developments in the area of adult education and related issues.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the chairman welcomed the representatives of the AONTAS — The national Association of Adult Education

Mr. John Ryan, - President, Ms. Berni Brady, - Director and Ms. Phyllis Priestly - Adult Learner / Teacher.

The representatives of the Department Ms. Pauline Gildea, Principal Officer, Further Education Section and Mr. Des O’Loughlin, Assistant Principal Officer, Further Education Section were also welcomed.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Following some introductory remarks by Mr. Ryan, Ms. Brady made a presentation on behalf of AONTAS. Ms. Priestly made a contribution based on her experience as an adult learner.

Ms. Gildea then made a presentation of behalf of the Department.

A Question and Answer session with members followed

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations.

9.Adjournment

There being no other business, The Joint Committee was adjourned at 11.11 a.m. until Thursday, 10^th February 2005.

____________________

Michael Moynihan

Chairman

10 February 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 10 February 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11:33 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Seán Crowe and Olywn Enright.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

8.Meeting with representatives of LÉARGAS, the Department of Education and Science and the HEA to discuss COM(2004)471 and COM(2004)474.

The meeting had been convened to discuss COM (2004) 471 and Proposal for a Decision of the European Parliament and of the Council creating the “YOUTH IN ACTION” programme for the period 2007-2013 and COM (2004)474 - Proposal for a Decision of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing an integrated action programme in the field of lifelong learning.

On behalf of the committee, the chairman welcomed from LÉARGAS

Mr. Jim Mullin - Executive Director and his colleagues Mr. Pat Halley, Ms. Emer Malone, Mr. Des Burke and Ms. Fionnuala Broughan, from the Department of Education and Science Mr. P.J. Breen, Mr. Seán Harkin, Principal Officers and their colleagues Ms. Anne Murray, Mr. John Dolan and Mr. Joseph Murphy and from the HEA Ms. Mary Kerr, Deputy Chief Executive and her colleague Ms. Louise Sherry.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Mr. Mullin then made a presentation of behalf of LÉARGAS. This was followed by presentations from Mr Breen and Ms. Murray on behalf of the Department of Education and Science.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations.

9.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 12:44 p.m. until Thursday, 24^th February 2005.

____________________

Michael Moynihan

Chairman

10 March 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 24 February 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.34 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Damien English.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

8.Meeting with representatives of the National Children’s Office and the Department of Education and Science to discuss the issue of play in schools.

The meeting had been convened for the purpose of discussing play in schools.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representative from the National Children’s Office, Ms. Marie Kennedy, Principal Officer. The Chairman also welcomed from the Department of Education and Science

Ms. Doreen McMorris, Assistant Chief Inspector, Mr. Pádraig MacFhlannchadha, Primary Inspector, and Ms. Teresa Griffin, Principal Officer, School Building Unit.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms. Kennedy made the presentation on behalf of the National Children’s Office.

Ms. McMorris then made the presentation on behalf of the Department of Education and Science.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations.

9.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 1.08 p.m. until Thursday, 10th March, 2005 at 11:30 a.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

10 March, 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 10 March 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11:45 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with representatives of the National Parents Council - Primary and National Parents Council - Post Primary to discuss aid for schoolbooks grant and other student support schemes.

The meeting had been convened to discuss aid for schoolbooks grant and other student support schemes.

On behalf of the committee, the chairman welcomed Ms. Fionnuala Kilfeather, Chief Executive of the Parents Council - Primary, Ms Eleanor Petrie - President Parents Council - Post Primary Ltd and Ms Marion Lyon - Member of the Parents Council - Post Primary Ltd.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms. Kilfeather then made a presentation of behalf of the Parents Council - Primary. This was followed by presentations by Ms Petrie and Ms Lyon on behalf of the Parents Council - Post Primary Ltd.

A Question and Answer session with members followed

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations.

9.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 1:09 p.m. until Thursday, 24 March 2005.

____________________

Michael Moynihan

Chairman

7 April 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday, 24 March 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11:34 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with representatives of ASTI, INTO and TUI to discuss the promotion of excellence and the measurement of achievement in education and how the agencies of the State can intervene to assist teachers.

The meeting had been convened to discuss the promotion of excellence and the measurement of achievement in education and how the agencies of the State can intervene to assist teachers.

On behalf of the Committee, the chairman welcomed the representatives from INTO

Mr. John Carr ,General Secretary and Mr. Austin Corcoran, President; from ASTI

Mr. John White, Acting General Secretary, Ms. Susie Hall, President and Ms. Moira Leydon Assistant General Secretary, Education/Research and from TUI Mr. Paddy Healy, President and Mr. John McGowan Education & Research Officer.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Following introductory remarks by Mr. Corcoran, Mr. Carr made a presentation of behalf of the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation.

This was followed by presentations by Mr. White and Ms. Hall on behalf of the Association of Secondary Teachers’ Ireland.

Mr. Healy and Mr. Mc Gowan presented on behalf of the Teachers Union of Ireland.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

Before contributing to the discussion, Deputy Máire Hoctor stated that she is a member of the Association of Secondary Teachers’, Ireland.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations.

9.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 2:22 p.m. until Thursday, 7 April 2005.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

7 April, 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 7 April 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11:37 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies were received from Senator Ulick Burke

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Item Discussed in Private Session

8.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 12:28 p.m. until Thursday, 24 April 2005.

____________________

Michael Moynihan

Chairman

5 May 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 21 April, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11:34 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies were received from Senators Ulick Burke and John Minihan.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with representatives of the Education Special Interest Group of the Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists to discuss the use of the creative arts therapies in education.

The meeting had been convened to discuss the use of the creative arts therapies in education.

On behalf of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of the Education Special Interest Group of the Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists -

Ms. Pauline Sweeney, Drama Therapist, Fran Burns, Dance Movement Therapist, Ms. Deirdre Horan, Music Therapist and Ms. Bríd Shanahan, Art Therapist.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms. Sweeney made a presentation to the Committee.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and acknowledged the input of creative arts therapists in socially disadvantaged schools. It was agreed that the Committee write to the Minister bringing the submission to her attention and requesting that she consider providing long-term, secure funding for the services being provided.

8.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee adjourned at 12.29 p.m. until Thursday, 5^th May at 11.30 a.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

12th May,2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 5 May, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11:36 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies were received from Senators Ulick Burke.

[In Public Session]

3.Nomination of a Temporary Chairman.

In the unavoidable absence of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman for the start of the meeting, the Clerk took the chair and called for nominations for a temporary Chairman. Deputy Seán Haughey was nominated by Senator Liam Fitzgerald. In the absence of any other nomination, Deputy Seán Haughey took the chair.

[In Private Session]

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with representatives of the Transferable Skills Project Office to discuss the report entitled ‘The hidden value of higher education learning: transferable skills and their importance for graduates of modern language programmes’.

The meeting had been convened to discuss the report entitled ‘The hidden value of higher education learning: transferable skills and their importance for graduates of modern language programmes’.

On behalf of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of the Transferable Skills Project Office -

Ms Rhona Sherry, Project Officer, from the Careers Advisory Service, TCD, Ms Orlaith Tunney, Project Manager, Careers Advisory Service, TCD, Dr Jennifer Bruen, Lecturer in German at DCU and Ms Caroline Nash, from the Steering committee of the Transferable Skills Office and Assistant Director of IBEC.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms. Sherry then made a presentation to the Committee.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the questions of the committee.

[In Private Session]

8.Item Discussed in Private Session

9.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee adjourned at 12.32 p.m. until Thursday, 12th May.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

12th May, 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 12 May, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 2:02 p.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies were received from Deputy Paul Gogarty and Senator Ulick Burke.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

6.Discussion with Mr. Timothy O’Rourke Re: Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse (Amendment) Bill 2005

The meeting had been convened to hear a submission from Mr. O’Rourke on the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse (Amendment) Bill 2005.

On behalf of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed Mr. O’Rourke and Mr. James McGuill to the meeting.

The Chairman then drew Member’s attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Mr. O’Rourke then commenced a presentation to the Committee.

7.SOS

Due to a vote in the Dáil, the committee suspended from 2:27p.m. to 3:17p.m.

8.Discussion with Mr. Timothy O’Rourke Re: Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse (Amendment) Bill 2005 (Resumed)

Following the suspension, Mr. O’Rourke continued his presentation.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

The Chairman thanked Mr. O’Rourke and Mr. McGuill for the presentation and for answering the questions of the committee. .

9.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee adjourned at 3:17 p.m. until Thursday, 17th May at 3:00p.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

15 June 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 17^th May, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 3.05 p.m. in Committee Room 4 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Paul Gogarty.

3.[In Public Session]

Motions concerning Draft Order entitled - Draft Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse Act 2000 (Section 5) (Specified Period) Order 2005

The meeting had been convened to consider a Motion concerning Draft Order entitled - Draft Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse Act 2000 (Section 5) (Specified Period) Order 2005 which was laid before Dáil and Seanad Éireann on 13^th April, 2005 and referred for consideration to the Joint Committee by both Houses on 5^th May with a requirement to report back to both Houses not later than 19^th May.

The Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Mary Hanafin, made a presentation on the subject matter of the Draft Order.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

Messages to Dáil and Seanad:

The Chairman informed Members that, as the Joint Committee had concluded its consideration of the Draft Order, the Clerk would send a message to that effect to the Clerk of the Dáil in accordance with Standing Order 85 and the Clerk of the Seanad in accordance with Standing Order 67 (Seanad). Under Dáil Standing Order 84(2) and Standing Order 69(2) (Seanad) the message is deemed to be the report of the Committee.

The Chairman thanked the Minister and her officials for attending the meeting.

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee meeting adjourned at 3.18 p.m.until Thursday, 19^th May, at 11.30 a.m.

_________________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

7 July 2005.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 19 May, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11:40a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

3.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies was received from Senator Ulick Burke.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Item Discussed in Private Session

8.Item Discussed in Private Session

9.Item Discussed in Private Session

10.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee adjourned at 1:20 p.m. until Thursday, 31^st May at 2:30 p.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

7 July 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Tuesday 31st May, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 2:46 p.m. in Committee Room 1 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Seán Crowe and Damien English.

[In Public Session]

3.Meeting with members of the Parliament of Saxony-Anhalt

On behalf of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the delegation representing the Committee on Education and Science of the Parliament of Saxony-Anhalt.

The meeting had been convened at the request of the visitors to discuss Education Systems and related topics.

The Chairman asked the visiting Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Gunnar Schellenberger, to commence by introducing the members of the committee and to begin making a short presentation.

On conclusion of the presentation the Chairman invited all other members to make their contribution.

A question and answer session with members then followed.

The Chairman thanked the visitors from Saxony-Anhalt for the presentation and for answering the questions of the committee.

4.AOB

It was proposed to discuss the draft Physical Education report at the next meeting.

5.Adjournment

There being no other business, the Joint Committee adjourned at 4.05 p.m. until Thursday, 9^th June 2005 at 11.45 a.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

7^th July 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Wednesday 15^th June, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.37 a.m. in Committee Room 1 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Liam Fitzgerald.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Item Discussed in Private Session

8.Item Discussed in Private Session

9.Adjournment

There, being no other business, the Joint Committee adjourned sine die.

____________________

Michael Moynihan

Chairman

7^th July 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 30^th June, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.37 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with Officials from the Department of Education and Science to consider COM (2004) 317 Recognition of Professional Qualifications.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed Ms Leona de Khors, Assistant Principal and her colleague, Ms Claire Lennon, who were there to discuss COM (2004) 317 Recognition of Professional Qualifications.

The Chairman began by drawing attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

The Chairman then invited Ms de Khors to make a presentation on behalf of the group.

After the presentation the Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the members questions.

8.Adjournment

There being no further business, the Joint Committee was adjourned until Thursday 7 July, at 11:00 a.m.

_____________________

Michael Moynihan

Chairman

7^th July 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 7^th July, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.06 a.m. in Committee Room 4 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies were received from Deputy Seán Crowe and Senator Liam Fitzgerald.

Other member in attendance: - Deputy Finian McGrath

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

[Public Session]

6.Meetings with various groups to discuss current and future developments with regard to boards of management of primary schools.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed Canon John McCullagh from the Church of Ireland Board of Education, Mr. Paul Rowe and Ms. Jane McCarthy from Educate Together and Ms. Antoinette Buggle from the National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education Schools. Chuir an Cathaoirleach fáilte freisin roimh an tUasal Clare Walsh agus an tUasal Nora Ní Loinsigh ó Ghaelscoileanna.

The Chairman advised that while members of the committee had absolute privilege, the same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

The Chairman then asked, because of the number of organisations to be heard that day, that each organisation would stick to 10 minutes for each of their presentations.

Rev John McCullagh made the presentation on behalf of the Church of Ireland Board of Education

This was followed by presentations from Mr. Paul Rowe and Ms Jane McCarthy on behalf of Educate Together and from Ms. Antoinette Buggle on behalf of the National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education Schools. Ansin labhair an tUasal Nora Ní Loinsigh thar cheann Ghaelscoileanna.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

The Chairman then thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the members’ questions.

7.SOS.

The meeting was suspended at 1:36 p.m. until 2.16p.m.

8.Meetings with various groups to discuss current and future developments with regard to boards of management of primary schools (continued).

The discussion continued on current and future developments with regard to boards of management of primary schools.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed, Ms. Anita McCann, Chairperson and Ms. Fionnuala Kilfeather, Chief Executive of the National Parents Council Primary and Ms Catherine Byrne, Deputy General Secretary and Ms Sheila Nunan, President of the Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO).

The Chairman then asked, because of the number of organisations to be heard that day, that each organisation would stick to 10 minutes for each of their presentations.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms Fionnuala Kilfeather made the presentation on behalf of the National Parents Council Primary.

This was followed by a presentation by Ms Sheila Nunan and Ms Anne McElduff on behalf of the INTO.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

The Chairman then thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the members’ questions.

[In Private Session]

8.Item Discussed in Private Session

9.Adjournment

There being no further business, the Joint Committee was adjourned until Wednesday 7 September, at 11:00a.m.

_______________________

Michael Moynhan T.D.

Chairman

6^th October 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Wednesday 7^th September, 2005

[In Public Session]

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.10 a.m. in Committee Room 4 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

In the unavoidable absence of the Chairman, the Vice-Chair, Deputy Jan O’Sullivan,took the Chair for the duration of the meeting.

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Barry Andrews,Seán Haughey, Michael Moynihan and Thomas Mc Ellistrim.

3.Meeting with Interest Groups to Discuss Adult Literacy

The meeting had been convened to hear presentations from groups who had sent written submissions on Adult Literacy in response to the Committee’s request. On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of :

■Dublin Adult Learning Centre

■National Adult Literacy Agency

■ADM (Area Development Management Ltd)

■County Dublin Vocational Education Committee

■City of Dublin Vocational Education Committee

The Chairman began by drawing attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms. Mary Maher made a presentation on behalf of the Dublin Adult Learning Centre.

Ms. Inez Bailey made a presentation on behalf of the National Adult Literacy Agency.

Ms. Bernie McDonnell made a presentation on behalf of ADM (Area Development Management Ltd)

Ms. Fiona Hartley presented on behalf of County DublinVocational Education Committee.

Ms. Jacinta Stewart presented on behalf of City of Dublin Vocational Education Committee.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the Members questions.

Suspension

The Committee suspended at 12.45 p.m. and resumed at 1.42 p.m.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of :

■County Clare VEC and Clare Youth Service

■County Donegal VEC

■Department of Psychiatry of Old Age - Northern Area Health Board, HSE

Chuir an Cathaoirleach fáilte freisin roimh ionadaithe ó :

■Co Galway VEC - West Galway Adult Literacy Service

■Breacadh

The Chairman began by drawing attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms.Moira Greene made a presentation on behalf of County Clare VEC and Clare Youth Service.

Rinne an t Uasal Neasa de Bhailís cur i láthair ar son an tSeirbhís Literartha i gcomhar Daoine Fásta in Iarthar na Gaillimhe.

Ms. Crona Gallagher made a presentation on behalf of County Donegal VEC.

Ms.Tina McGrath made a presentation on behalf of the Department of Psychiatry of Old Age - Northern Area Health Board, HSE.

Rinne an tUasal Noírín Ní Ghrádaigh cur i láthair ar son Breacadh.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the members questions.

Suspension

The Committee suspended at 3.10 p.m. and resumed at 3.39 p.m.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of :

■Adult Literacy Organisers Association (ALOA)

■Adult Education Officers Association

■Irish Vocational Education Association

■Co Louth VEC

■Co Wicklow VEC

The Chairman began by drawing attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms. Mary Hession made a presentation on behalf of Adult Literacy Organisers Association (ALOA)

Ms. Gay Hogan made a presentation behalf of the Adult Education Officers Association.

Ms. Mary Bohan made a presentation on behalf of the Irish Vocational Education Association.

Mr. Peter Connolly made a presentation on behalf of Co. Louth VEC.

Mr. Brian Mac Diarmada made a presentation on behalf of Co Wicklow VEC.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering Members’ questions.

4.Any Other Business.

On the proposal of the chairman, the committee agreed to defer consideration of correspondence and EU scrutiny until the end of the next day’s meeting.

5.Adjournment

There being no further business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 5.03 p.m. until Thursday 8 September, at 10:00 a.m.

_____________________

Michael Moynihan T.D.,

Chairman

20^th October 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 8^th September, 2005

[In Public Session]

1.The Joint Committee met at 10.09 a.m. in Committee Room 4 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Barry Andrews, Sean Haughey, and Thomas Mc Ellistrim.

3.Meeting with Interest Groups to Discuss Adult Literacy

The meeting had been convened to resume hearing presentations from groups who had sent written submissions on Adult Literacy in response to the Committee’s request. On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of :

■Local Authority National Partnership Advisory Group (LANPAG)

■Return to Learning — Dublin City Council

■Church of Scientology Mission of Dublin

■Neuron Learning Ltd

The Chairman began by drawing attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Mr. Matt Merrigan made a presentation on behalf of the Local Authority National Partnership Advisory Group (LANPAG)

Ms. Bernadette Sproule made a presentation on behalf of Return to Learning — Dublin City Council.

Mr. Gerard Ryan made a presentation on behalf of the Church of Scientology Mission of Dublin.

Mr. John Kerins made a presentation on behalf of Neuron Learning Ltd.

A question and answer session with members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the members’ questions.

Suspension

The Committee suspended at 11.34 a.m. and resumed at 11.57 a.m.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of:

■Exchange House Travellers Service

■Dyslexia Association of Ireland

■The Career Path for Dyslexia

■WITH/Cúram

■The Bray Adult Education Network

The Chairman began by drawing attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Ms. Helen Campbell made a presentation behalf of the Exchange House Travellers Service.

Ms Anne Hughes made a presentation on behalf of the Dyslexia Association of Ireland.

Ms. Margaret Doyle made a presentation on behalf of The Career Path for Dyslexia.

Ms. Cathríona Lynch made a presentation on behalf of WITH/Cúram.

Ms. Mary O’Carolan made a presentation on behalf of Bray Adult Education Network.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the Members’ questions.

Suspension

The Committee suspended at 1.34 p.m. and resumed at 2.30 p.m.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the representatives of:

■Soilse

■Health Promotion Service of the HSE, Northern Area

■Dublin Community Television (DCTV) Adult Education Thematic Content Group

■City of Limerick VEC Adult Literacy Service

The Chairman began by drawing attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Mr. Gerry McAleenan made a presentation on behalf of Soilse.

Ms. Angela King made a presentation on behalf of the Health Promotion Service of the HSE, Northern Area.

Mr. Jack Byrne made a presentation on behalf of Dublin Community Television (DCTV) Adult Education Thematic Content Group.

Ms. Eithne Cunneen made a presentation on behalf of City of Limerick VEC Adult Literacy Service

A question and answer session with Members followed.

The Chairman thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the members’ questions.

[In Private Session]

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Adjournment

There being no further business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 4.18 p.m. until Thursday 22 September, at 11:30 a.m.

_____________________

Michael Moynihan T.D.,

Chairman,

20^th October 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 22 September 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.33 a.m. in Committee Room 4 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies were received from Senator Ulick Burke.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

[Public Session]

6.Meeting with the Catholic Primary School Managers’Association, the Irish Primary Principals’ Network and an Foras Pátrúnachta na Scoileanna LánGhaeilge Teo to discuss current and future developments with regard to boards of management of primary schools.

On behalf of the members of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed Fr Dan O’Connor representing the Catholic Primary School Managers’Association, who was accompanied by Sister Mary Collins, who is President of the Primary Teaching Sisters and Sr Mairéad Gallagher. Mr. Seán Cottrell, from the Irish Primary Principals’ Network, who was accompanied by Mr. David Ruddy and Mr. John Curran. Chuir an roimh an tUasal Donal O’Conaill, an tUasal Carmel Nic Airt agus an tUasal Breandáin Mac Cormaic a bhí i lathair ar son an Fhoras Pátrúnachta na Scoileanna LánGhaeilge Teo.

The Chairman advised that while members of the committee had absolute privilege, the same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Fr. Dan O’Connor made the presentation on behalf of the Catholic Primary School Managers’Association.

This was followed by presentations from Mr. Seán Cottrell on behalf of the Irish Primary Principals’ Network. Ansin labhair an tUasal Carmel Nic Airt thar cheann an Fhoras Pátrúnachta na Scoileanna LánGhaeilge Teo.

A Question and Answer session with members followed.

The Chairman then thanked the guests for their presentations and for answering the members’ questions.

7.Adjournment

There being no further business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 2.07 p.m. until Thursday 29 September, at 11:30a.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

9 February 2006

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 29^th September, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.34 a.m. in Committee Room 4 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

[Public Session]

6.Discussion about School Transport with the Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science, Deputy Síle de Valera.

The meeting had been convened to discuss school transport and related issues.

The Chairman welcomed Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science, Deputy Síle de Valera, and her officials to the meeting.

The Minister made a presentation to the Committee, a copy of which was circulated to Members.

A question and answer session with Members commenced.

Suspension

The meeting was suspended at 12.44 p.m. due to a Division in the Dáil.

The meeting resumed at 1.09 with the continuation of the Question and Answer session.

The Chairman thanked the Minister and her officials for attending the meeting.

7. Any Other Business

There was no other business.

8.Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 1.50 p.m. until Thursday 6th October 2005 at 11.30 a.m.

_____________________

Michael Moynihan T.D.

Chairman

20^th October 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 6^th October, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.37 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Olwyn Enright.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Item Discussed in Private Session

8.Adjournment

There, being no other business, the Joint Committee adjourned at 12:27p.m. until Thursday, 20th October at 11:30 a.m.

_____________________

Michael Moynihan T.D.,

Chairman,

20^th October 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday 20^th October, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.35 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Barry Andrews, Seán Crowe andSenator Ulick Burke.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with officials of the Department of Education and Science to discuss (a) current and future developments with regard to boards of management of primary schools and (b) career opportunities at second level for recent graduates, including over and under supply of graduates in particular subject areas and recruitment processes and procedures

The Chairman welcomed the officials from the Department of Education and Science -

Mr. Johnny Bracken, Principal Officer, Primary Branch

Mr. Dalton Tatton, Legal Services Unit

Mr. Eamonn Murtagh, Assistant Chief Inspector

Mr. Paul Ryan, Principal Officer, Teacher Education Section

Mr. Alfie Barrett, Principal Officer (A), Post Primary Teachers Section.

The Chairman drew attention to the fact that members of the Committee had absolute privilege, but this same privilege did not apply to witnesses appearing before the Committee.

Members were reminded of the long standing Parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Mr. Bracken made a presentation on behalf of the Department of Education and Science.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

The Chairman thanked the officials from the Department of Education and Science for their presentation and for answering the members’ questions.

8.AOB

It was agreed that at the next meeting on 3^rd November the Committee would consider the classification of schools as disadvantaged and additional funding schemes available to schools.

9.Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 1.05 p.m. until Thursday 3^rd November 2005 at 11.30 a.m.

_______________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.,

Chairman’

17 November 2005.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

3^rd November, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.34 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Ulick Burke.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with Officials of the Department of Education and Science to discuss the Classification of Schools as Disadvantaged and Additional Funding Schemes Available to Schools

The Chairman welcomed the officials from the Department of Education and Science,

Mr. Séamus McLoughlin, Principal Officer, Social Inclusion Unit and his colleagues , Mr. Jim O’Donovan, Assistant Principal Officer and Ms. Caitriona O’Brien, Assistant Principal Officer, Social Inclusion Unit

The Chairman then invited Mr. Séamus McLoughlin to make the presentation on behalf of the Department of Education and Science.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

After the questions and answers session the Chairman thanked the officials from the Department of Education and Science for an informative meeting.

8.Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 12.42 p.m. until Thursday 17^th November 2005 at 11.30 a.m.

_______________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.,

Chairman’

17^th November 2005.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday, 17 November, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 12.03 p.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Joanna Tuffy.

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

5.Meeting with representatives of Committee D (Environment and Social) of the British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body to discuss their report entitled ‘Enquiry into special needs educational provision in Britain and Ireland, with special reference to autism’.

On behalf of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed Mr. Jeff Ennis, M.P. and Ms. Audrey Nelson who had travelled from London for the meeting. Senator Mary O’Rourke and Deputy Jim Glennon were also welcomed.

Mr. Jeff Ennis, M.P. made the presentation on behalf of Committee D of the British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

After the question and answer session the Chairman thanked the representatives of Committee D for their attendance at what had been a very informative meeting.

Mr. Ennis undertook to forward copies of Committee D’s report covering not just autistic spectrum disorder, ASD, but all special educational needs when it is concluded . He anticipated the report would not be concluded before Easter 2006.

6.Adjournment

There being no further business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 1.18 p.m. until Thursday 1^st December, at 11:30a.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

15^th December 2005

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday, 1 December, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.32 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

5.Item Discussed in Private Session

6.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

7.Meeting with representatives of the National Educational Welfare Board to discuss the Roll-out of the NEWB National Service.

On behalf of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the following representatives of the National Educational Welfare Board to the meeting:

Dr. Ann Louise Gilligan, Chairperson

Mr. Eddie Ward, Chief Executive Officer and

Ms.Eileen Fahy, Director of Educational Services.

Dr. Ann Louise Gilligan, followed by Ms. Fahy and Mr. Ward made presentations to the committee.

A question and answer session with Members followed.

After the question and answer session the Chairman thanked the representatives the National Educational Welfare Board for their attendance at what had been a very informative meeting.

6.Adjournment

There being no further business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 12.48 p.m. until Thursday 15^th December, at 11:30a.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

9 February 2006.

Joint Committee on Education and Science

Proceedings of the Joint Committee,

Thursday, 15 December, 2005

1.The Joint Committee met at 11.36 a.m. in Committee Room 2 LH2000.

2.Attendance

The following members were present:-

[In Private Session]

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

4.Item Discussed in Private Session

2.Item Discussed in Private Session

3.Item Discussed in Private Session

7.Item Discussed in Private Session

[In Public Session]

8.Meeting with representatives of the Department of Education and Science and of the Centre for Technology in Education to discuss the rollout of Broadband Technologies in schools.

On behalf of the Joint Committee the Chairman welcomed the following representatives of the Department of Education and Science and the Centre for Technology in Education to the meeting:

Ms Mary McGarry, Principal Officer, ICT Policy Unit in the Department of Education and Science and her colleague Mr. Fergal Nolan.

Mr. Jerome Morrissey, Director Centre for Technology in Education, and his colleague Mr. Tom Lonergan, Technology Co-Coordinator.

Ms Mary McGarry made the presentation on behalf of the Department of Education and Science.

Mr. Jerome Morrissey then made the presentation on behalf of the Centre for Technology in Education.

A question and answer session with members followed.

After the question and answer session the Chairman thanked the representatives of the Department of Education and Science and the Centre for Technology in Education for their attendance at what had been a very informative meeting.

[In Private Session]

9.Item Discussed in Private Session

10.Adjournment

There being no further business, the Joint Committee was adjourned at 1.07 p.m. until Thursday 19^th January, at 11:30a.m.

____________________

Michael Moynihan, T.D.

Chairman

19^th January 2005