asked the Minister for Education if having regard to the diminishing importance of Latin in the modern world he will take steps to encourage the study of other languages and subjects in place of Latin; if he will encourage professional bodies and educational establishments not to prescribe Latin as an essential qualification in future; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Study of Languages.
30.
The steps which have been taken by my Department in recent years to encourage the study of modern Continental languages have resulted in a great increase in the numbers taking these languages. It is my intention to intensify these steps. Similar encouragement with similar results has taken place in the case of science subjects.
The prescribing, however, of any subject as essential for a profession is primarily a matter for the professional body concerned.
Would the Minister consider encouraging professional bodies to come up to date? We have a situation in this country where many professional bodies are still requiring Latin as a subject, although in more progressive countries, educationally speaking, they have done away with this requirement.
Mr. O'Malley
The Deputy will appreciate that there are certain professions which will always require the use of Latin as a qualification. The Deputy might have a late vocation himself.
It might not be necessary in the profession the Minister has in mind either, if the Minister were up to date in his liturgy.
Mr. O'Malley
Any educated country prescribes Latin in accordance with requirements.
Would the Minister not have a look at the present situation in other countries, in both the academic and professional world, where the requirement of Latin has been done away with although it is still maintained here?
Mr. O'Malley
What countries is the Deputy talking about?
Continental countries.
Mr. O'Malley
Such as?
If the Minister wants a memorandum on it, I shall supply it.