asked the Minister for Education whether, in view of the urgent need for the provision of physical education and athletic facilities in this country, he will state what action the Government propose to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Provision of Athletic Facilities.
I fully recognise the importance of physical education and it is the constant endeavour of the Department of Education to make the maximum provision consonant with other requirements for this subject in the various schools which receive grants.
The provision of athletic facilities has naturally my full sympathy, but it cannot be held that such provision is or should be a ministerial responsibility.
I do not suggest that it is a ministerial responsibility, but in view of the fact that there are only very limited facilities available in the country for the training of athletes in track and field events, and that as a result of this lack of facilities, our standard compares very badly on an international scale, would the Minister not agree that the Government should take action so that our Irish youth will be enabled to take their place in competition of the highest nature amongst the nations of the world?
I am concerned with primary, secondary and vocational schools and I am not quite clear——
Perhaps the question should have been addressed to some other Minister.
At any rate I would like somebody outside the Ministry to give consideration to the age at which we might give special treatment to people to enable them to compete in international athletic events.
Can the Minister give any inkling that such a thing is likely to prove feasible in the near future?
I am up to my eyes in the consideration of other matters at the present time, but I will keep the Deputy's suggestion in mind.