asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to ask secondary school managers or head teachers to apply a means test for the purpose of supplying free school books; and, if not, how the children are to be selected for a free issue of books.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free School Books.
40.
Mr. O'Malley
It is not proposed to ask secondary school managers or headmasters to introduce a means test for the purpose of supplying free books and accessories under the scheme for the provision of free post-primary education. School headmasters will be given discretion in administering this part of the scheme in the light of their knowledge of the circumstances of their pupils.
Would the Minister say in what other way can managers or teachers be expected to apply this money except in accordance with the means of the children and is that not, in fact, a means test under another name?
Mr. O'Malley
I suppose one could call it that.