The experiences in the programme had been those of a small number of vulnerable young people, she said.

A chronic absence of 20 days or more is linked to a gap of over 80 Leaving Cert points.

Speaking on RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland, Suzanne Connolly said there was now an opportunity for the political parties to clarify their plans.

Children's charity Barnardos said it was disturbing that so many parents were struggling to put food on the table for their children