asked the Minister for Education if he can state (a) the number of private schools in Cork City, (b) the number of those schools which have applied for recognition as suitable schools under the School Attendance Act, (c) the number of such applications which have been refused, and the number which have been granted recognition as suitable schools within the meaning of the School Attendance Act, and (d) the average attendance of pupils between the ages of six and 14 years in each of such schools for the year ended 30th June, 1938.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork City Private Schools.
Apart from the junior departments of four secondary schools no schools in Cork City are certified as "suitable" schools under Section (5) of the School Attendance Act. The figures of average attendance of pupils (6-14 years of age) at these junior departments are not at present available. No applications for the certification of private schools in Cork City under the section mentioned have been received in recent years.
Arising out of the answer given by the Minister, am I to take it that he is aware that the attendance at such schools does not comply with the provisions of the School Attendance Act? Would he say if the existence of such schools is brought to his notice, he will undertake action in the matter?
Yes, I will have inquiries made if the Deputy furnishes me with particulars.