Cllr Tomás Sharkey
Sinn Féin Councillor Tomás Sharkey has raised the need for career guidance services to be properly resourced in Louth schools.
“Leaving Cert students are busy finalising their applications for college entry in September 2014. They are filling in their forms ready for the final deadline of 1st February. Unfortunately, students in Louth and across this state are left to do this without the same supports and advice that previous students had. This government cut the ring fenced provision of guidance counselling in our schools last year,” said Cllr Sharkey.
“Comhairle na nÓg is a youth forum in Louth. That group of teenagers came to the December monthly meeting of Louth County Council and explained clearly what their concerns were. In their presentation to councillors, teenagers were concerned about the ‘consistency of availibility of career guidance counsellors and the delivery of career guidance intervention.’ They gave a clear recommendation to us and said they wanted more funding for career guidance and the provision of career guidance earlier in school life.
“As a teacher, I know how much students and parents value the advice that a career guidance counsellor can give. I also know how confusing it can be for students at this time. Young people have told us their concerns and have offered sensible solutions. It is time the government listened to them.”
Talk of the Town 