The effects of early school-leaving and its impact on society have been highlighted in a new study by the ESRI.
The Economic & Social Research Institute's research was commissioned by Barnardos and focused on addressing educational disadvantage in Ireland.
Early school-leaving was found to result in higher expenditure on welfare, health and prisons as well as decreased tax revenue.
The report suggests that if children’s needs are to be addressed there should be joined-up policy between health, education and welfare services.
The research suggests that early school leavers are up to four times more likely to be unemployed than those with higher qualifications, even before the current recession.
Early leavers earn lower wages, have poorer health and are more reliant on the medical card.
It was also found that young women who leave school early were more likely to become lone parents.
The study will be used to help Barnardos draft future policy.
