asked the Minister for Education the number of secondary schools which have notified him that they propose to opt out of his scheme for free secondary education; and if he can state the reasons given for so opting out.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Secondary Education.
54.
Mr. O'Malley
A circular will shortly be issued to all secondary school authorities outlining the provisions of the new scheme and asking them whether they wish to opt for it. Until replies to that circular are received, no precise information is available as to what the schools propose to do.
At the present time the Minister has not in his possession information which suggests that a secondary school or a number of secondary schools will not be opting under his proposed scheme?
Mr. O'Malley
I am in a position to say that most of the schools will opt to accept the free education.
But the Minister's Department has received no information from any educational authorities to suggest that they would not be participating in his secondary school scheme when it comes into operation?
Mr. O'Malley
That would be incorrect. I have received submissions from certain schools and certain Orders saying they were not prepared to opt into the scheme. On reconsideration, I think they will.
The position will be a serious one. In fact, the whole exercise will be seriously jeopardised if, in fact, the majority of secondary schools are not participating in it.
Mr. O'Malley
I am reasonably certain that a considerable number will be forthcoming.