FG call for action against truancy

Fine Gael has called on the Government to combat school truancy by putting in place more educational welfare officers.

The party has made the demand following reports that only 37 of the 300 officers it deems necessary will be put in place.

According to the party's acting education spokesperson, Deputy Paul McGrath, the National Education welfare board needs more than 37 officers to monitor the increasing truancy problem in this country.