asked the Minister for Agriculture if he can state (1) how many students have qualified as agricultural instructors at the College of Science or University College, Dublin, since 1910; (2) how many of these men are employed (a) by county committees of agriculture as instructors; (b) directly by the Department; (c) in any advisory, technical or teaching capacity in the schools or colleges controlled by the Department; (d) in a similar capacity in schools or colleges subsidised by the Department; and (3) if he can state how many are unemployed and awaiting positions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Instructors.
Mr. Hogan
I would point out to the Deputy that there has been no qualifying examination for the post of agricultural instructor at either of the institutions referred to. The Department have, however, regarded the possession of the diploma or degree in question as requisite for the post of agricultural instructor.
The following are the figures asked for:—
(1)—132.
(2)—(a) 31, (b) 17, (c) 6, (d) 5.
In regard to part (3) of the question, the Department have no information as to the employment or otherwise of students possessing the qualification in question, save in so far as such students have been appointed in connection with posts under departmental or county committee schemes.