asked the Minister for Education if he will state the number of teachers operating the scheme for the provision of free instruction on one half-day per week, indicating (1) the percentages under the headings male principal, male assistant, female assistant, and (2) the numbers engaged in the different subjects.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Teachers under Free Instruction Scheme.
The scheme for the provision of free instruction in cultural subjects for a half-day per week in national schools was introduced in March, 1954, on a voluntary experimental basis to operate up to the end of the current school year when the position is to be reviewed in the light of the experience gained.
According to reports furnished by the inspectors in respect of the period up to 30th June, 1954—the end of the school year, 1954—the scheme had been adopted in 332 schools. It was then anticipated, however, that a considerable number of other schools would adopt it in the current school year.
I have not the detailed particulars which the Deputy has asked for in regard to the number and classification of the teachers who are engaged in this free instruction as copies of the detailed official time tables for the schools in general are not furnished to my Department.
The general position in regard to the scheme will be reviewed when the reports of the inspectors on its operation in the current school year are available.