asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that, owing to pressure on space, children are being compelled to leave certain Dublin national schools after they have obtained the Primary Certificate at the age of 12 to 13 years; that in many cases the parents of such children cannot afford to send their children to secondary schools; and that the children will not be accepted into vocational schools until they reach the age of 13½ years; and whether he will investigate this matter thoroughly, and take immediate steps to ensure that this situation is brought to an end.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Dublin Vocational School Pupils.
103.
In any cases where complaints of this nature have been received in my Department they have been investigated and satisfactory arrangements made for the further education of the pupils concerned.
Would the Minister not consider issuing a circular in the city of Dublin advising persons in charge of schools as to what should be done legally in a matter of this kind?
I will consider that. The cases have been dealt with individually and satisfactory arrangements have been made for the further education of the children.
Such cases are becoming more rampant now.
I shall consider the Deputy's suggestion.