asked the Minister for Education whether he is satisfied with the present position in relation to the education of blind children or whether he contemplates taking any action in regard to it; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Education of Blind Children.
There are two residential schools for blind children in Dublin, one for boys and one for girls and infant boys, with accommodation for about 150 pupils in all. I am satisfied that the accommodation in the school for girls and infant boys is adequate and satisfactory. In the case of the boys' school the present class-room accommodation is unsuitable and inadequate and a new school building affording special facilities for the instruction and training of these boys is being provided. A grant of £10,000 towards the cost of its erection has recently been sanctioned by my Department.
In regard to the standard of education provided in the two institutions referred to, I am satisfied that it compares favourably with the standard in neighbouring countries.
Would the Minister state whether or not he has given any consideration to the question of making education compulsory for blind children?
Where institutional training is necessary some compulsory powers would be needed in order to require children to attend at these institutions. Compulsion in such cases, involving the bringing of children and young people from their homes to the schools, is something which would be regarded as anathema by ordinary parents. Indeed, it is something which I do not think I would be prepared to stand over. On the other hand I am very anxious that as many blind children as possible should avail of the tuition provided in these schools; there is plenty of room for them. The only thing I can do is encourage parents to avail of the facilities afforded.