asked the Minister for Education whether he is prepared to urge all national school and vocational school authorities and teachers to undertake the promotion of tree planting during Arbor Week next March.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Promotion of Tree Planting.
asked the Minister for Education whether he is prepared to request all national school and vocational school authorities and teachers to give special instructions to their pupils in regard to the care of trees and the importance of afforestation before Arbor Week next March.
I propose with the concurrence of the Ceann Comhairle to take Questions Nos. 37 and 38 together.
In replying on the 17th July last to a somewhat similar question from the Deputy, I detailed the measures taken and the arrangements made by my Department in order to impress on the conductors of the schools the importance attached to the planting and care of trees and to the desirability of arranging to have their pupils fully instructed and directed in these matters. In view of what has already been done along these lines I am of opinion that no further recommendations or instructions need be issued to the schools in connection with Arbor Week.
Would the Minister not consider that a general circular would be useful and act as a reminder to the school authorities at this stage? It would not involve a great deal of difficulty and I think it would be useful for the purpose of drawing the attention of school authorities to Arbor Week.
I do not think so. Teachers are fully instructed in the matter and managers are fully informed. If they wish to take part in Arbor Day celebrations, even a full holiday may be granted according to the regulations.