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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 11 Feb 1965

Vol. 214 No. 2

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Education.

116.

asked the Minister for Education whether, in view of the acknowledged necessity for postprimary education for all and the fact that it is proposed to raise the school leaving age to 15 years in the immediate future and that it is contemplated raising it to 16 years later on, he will, from the start of the 1965 school year, provide free education for all pupils attending recognised schools up to 18 years.

It is the Government's intention to continue to increase the amount of the national resources which are being made available for education. In fact very much increased expenditure on education is being envisaged in the Second Programme for Economic Development.

What is involved in the Deputy's question is not, however, contemplated. It is one matter to give the maximum assistance. Giving such assistance indiscriminately would not be warranted.

Is it not a fact that, three years ago, the Taoiseach accepted the terms of a motion designed to raise the school leaving age to 15 years? How can the Minister reconcile his present reply with that decision then made by the Government?

The Government have already announced their intention of raising the school-leaving age by 1970. The matter before the House is the provision of free education for all pupils attending recognised schools up to 18 years.

Surely the Minister does not think it reasonable that 1970 is the earliest at which that figure can be reached?

The questions of the staff and accommodation necessary are involved in raising the school-leaving age.

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