asked the Minister for Education whether, in view of his statements on 29th November with regard to the necessity for selection for academic secondary education, his Department have made any study of methods of selection for different types of secondary education obtaining abroad; if so, in respect of what countries; whether any conclusion has been reached as to what type of selection would be best suited to this country; if so, what conclusion; and whether he has yet reached any conclusion as to the possibility of guiding children of lower than average intellectual ability, whose parents are possessed of considerable means, into the type of post-primary education best suited to such children.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Selection for Secondary Education.
37.
I made it clear in these statements that I was merely indicating the lines on which my thoughts had been running. In relation to the matter of selection for academic secondary education there is available in my Department information as to the position in various countries.
It is not to be inferred from that fact, however, that when conclusions have been arrived at, they will be modelled on the position in any particular country.
When the Minister has reached a decision in this matter and has an announcement to make, can he assure the House that he will make the announcement in Dáil Éireann?
Do I take it from the fact that the Minister's thoughts are running in a certain direction that that foreshadows Government policy?
One purpose would be to get other people thinking in the same direction.
(Interruptions.)
Will the Minister answer my question?
There is no question of making an announcement yet.
I asked the Minister if, when he has an announcement to make, he will make it in Dáil Éireann?
That could happen.
The people have some importance, too.
Is the war over now?
He is Santa Claus for the doctors this Christmas.