The programme for Government contains a commitment to tackle education in disadvantaged areas, DEIS schools and applications for DEIS status. I tabled a parliamentary question on this matter for written answer on 3 May. The answer from the Minister tells the schools involved that they are not entitled to the information as to why they did not qualify for DEIS status. In a town like Tipperary, which has substantial unemployment and considerable disadvantage, the least we can expect from the Department of Education and Skills is detailed reasons these schools did not qualify for DEIS status. I hope the Minister will come forward with a more detailed reason and explanation for the schools involved as to why they did not qualify.

I ask the Minister, Deputy Bruton, to respond to Deputy Cahill.

I assure the Deputy that the criteria used in the selection of schools for DEIS status have been fully published. We were able to include 79 new schools and 30 upgrades in the scheme. Of course, there are many disadvantaged schools that fall outside the criteria. If in future we have more resources, we will of course extend the scheme. I will communicate directly with all schools that sought a verification to clarify the position. Later in the summer, as soon as the 2016 results from the census for small areas are produced, we will review the outcome based on the most up-to-date data. I assure the Deputy that schools will be fully informed of the criteria used and the approach we have taken.