asked the Minister for Education whether he has established a section in his Department dealing with visual aids and, if so, when it was established: what number and percentage of (a) primary schools and (b) secondary schools used (1) film projections, (2) film strip projections, (3) slide projections, (4) record players and (5) tape recorders; and the total sum per head of the population spent (a) in the Republic and (b) in Northern Ireland for these purposes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Visual Aids to Education.
48.
A permanent Departmental Committee in relation to this matter has been functioning since 1949. It is now engaged in making an up-to-date census of the visual aid equipment in all the schools. Pending the completion of this census it is not possible to give the detailed information sought by the Deputy. The sum of £3,750 is being provided in the current year for educational films, film strips and slides.
Is the Minister likely to have information in time for his Estimates?
I did not get last year's Estimate speeches yet.
That is hardly our fault.
Could the Minister say if this section of his Department intends to extend their review to the possibility of collaboration between his Department and Telefís Éireann to provide an educational medium through the use of television in schools?
This is already under consideration and is quite well advanced.
It is hoped then, that in due course, we may use television for educational purposes?
Yes.