asked the Minister for Education whether it is his policy to consult with any organised body of teachers before making radical changes in the secondary schools programme, in view of the fact that these changes affect very closely the schools and teachers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Secondary Schools Programme.
The only change of a radical nature made in the secondary schools' programme in recent years deals with the introduction of lower courses in certain subjects. This change had been under consideration for some time, and representations regarding it were invited and obtained not only from the various bodies of headmasters and assistant teachers, but also from the authorities of each secondary school.
It is the practice of my Department to consult with the organised bodies of headmasters and assistant teachers regarding proposed changes in the programme when these deal with matters on which the views of the schools are not already known, but the statement of this practice is not to be interpreted as conveying or implying an undertaking that no change may be made without prior consultation with these bodies.
Might I ask the Minister, in continuation of that, if it does not convey the impression that the Minister recognises the importance of this consultation?
Yes.