asked the Minister for Education whether in view of the increasing authoritative demands and recommendations being made by leaders of the churches, industry and politics for wider educational opportunities for young people, he will (a) increase the school-leaving age to 15 years and take all necessary steps to facilitate this increase, (b) provide additional scholarships to secondary schools and universities for children of lower and middle income families, and (c) abolish fees to vocational schools.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Increased Educational Facilities.
34.
In regard to the raising of the school-leaving age I would refer the Deputy to my reply on 19th February, 1958 to a question from him in relation to this matter. I have nothing to add to that reply.
In relation to scholarships to secondary schools and universities it is not my intention at present to increase the number of such scholarships provided from State funds. Our legislation in relation to scholarships envisaged that in the main they would be provided out of local authority funds. It is a matter for each local authority to determine what number of scholarships it will award in any year.
In regard to fees in vocational schools, I do not propose to alter the present arrangements. I am satisfied that the arrangements are such that no child will be prevented from receiving vocational education through inability to pay fees.