asked the Minister for Education if in view of the fact that a number of county vocational education committees have exceeded the statutory limit of 15 pence in the pound on the rates and are consequently unable to meet their present commitments not to mention the requirements of expanding schemes he will consider making a special grant to enable them to carry on their work.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Grants to Vocational Education Committees.
150.
I am aware that a number of vocational education committees are in receipt of the statutory maximum annual contribution from the local authorities, and are operating with the assistance of bank overdrafts. This matter is receiving my close attention and I hope to be in a position very shortly to cater for it.
Will the Minister say whether he hopes to cater for it by increasing the amount the local authority may levy for vocational education purposes or whether he proposes to resort to the bank overdraft device?
It is not at a sufficient stage of development to permit me to make any statement at the moment as to what I intend to do.
The Minister will bear in mind that the present maximum limit has outlived its usefulness, in view of the present level of prices?
All the factors are taken into consideration, but, as I say, it is not sufficiently advanced at the moment for me to make an announcement as to what I intend to do.
Whatever change is contemplated, is it likely to be in operation before local authorities strike their rates for next year?
It would not be possible, I imagine, to have any legislation ready before that time but other changes will be considered.
Pending the legislation?
Yes.