asked the Minister for Education if he will state in respect of the year 1955 (a) the number of primary schools where rural science is taught; (b) the number of persons in each county taking (i) a full rural science course, (ii) carpentry, and (iii) mechanical engineering of all types, in vocational schools; and (c) the number of secondary schools where courses in biology, botany, zoology and allied subjects are provided.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Schools' Courses of Study.
In the school-year, 1954-55 rural science was taught in 66 national schools and nature study was taught in 121 other national schools. During that school year the number of secondary schools where courses which included instruction in botany, biology and allied subjects were provided was 180.
With regard to the information sought in relation to vocational schools, the Deputy will recollect that he asked a similar question on the 1st March, 1955, and that I replied to the effect that the information requested is not assembled by the vocational education committees in that form and that I was not clear as to what useful purpose would be served by asking the various committees to attempt to assemble it.
At the time I suggested to the Deputy that he might communicate with me further in the matter and I understand that he was subsequently in touch with officers of my Department and was supplied with appropriate information.
If the Deputy feels that he would like further information I should be glad to arrange that officers of my Department will furnish to him such suitable information as is available.