Bruton: Homeless children in school is a real challenge
education minister unveils investment in classrooms
EDUCATION Minister Richard Bruton has admitted the spike in homeless children is a “real challenge” for the Government.
It comes as it was revealed the number has more than doubled in some parts of the country.
Mr Bruton described it as a “difficult issue” as he launched the School of the Future scheme to highlight reforms and investment.
Concerns have been raised over affected pupils returning to school and the mechanisms to help them.
Mr Bruton said: “We do have a lot of support in place for children who come to school with whatever special needs.
“There is travel support for children who are homeless.
“Clearly our teachers, special needs assistants and our principals go to great lengths to ensure every child who comes to school is accommodated as best as possible.
“We try to support initiatives in schools whether it be breakfast clubs or any others that support children so they can participate.
“This is a real challenge for us, no other issue gets more attention than the challenge of homelessness.
“From the outset the Government has said it is a five-year challenge and we are not halfway through that programme. We continue to have difficulties, but many of the targets we have set have been reached.”
Mr Bruton said he recognises the budget pressures primary schools are under, with parents making financial contributions.
The Fine Gael minister added his party’s target was to have the “best education system” in Europe by 2026.
Mr Bruton said: “As young people go back to school, they will benefit from increased investment in education and curricular reforms designed to help them progress in life and achieve their full potential.
“Fine Gael has increased investment in education by over €1billion in the last two years, bringing the education budget to its highest ever at over €10billion.
“This investment is being used for more teachers, more SNAS [special needs assistants] and better resources for our children.”
Overall, the homeless total continues to rise with 9,891 people without a permanent roof over their heads.
We have difficulties but many targets have been reached RICHARD bruton Dublin YESTERDAY