asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that the categories of manpower in which scarcities existed in 1966 in Drogheda were those in which increased demand was foreseen to be most likely; and if he will expand vocational education in the area to solve this urgent problem.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drogheda Vocational Education Facilities.
23.
I understand that the pilot survey in Drogheda conducted by the Department of Social Science, UCD, in 1966, indicated that the greatest increases in demand were envisaged in precisely those categories in which there was the greatest scarcity in 1966, that is, skilled craftsmen and female semi-skilled workers and trainees.
The provision of vocational education in Drogheda, however, is a matter in the first instance for the local vocational education committee who are at present providing trade, technician and business courses. Should local demand require additional training courses any proposals which the vocational education committee may make in their regard and which would require the sanction of my Department, will be sympathetically considered.
24.
asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the fact that only 42 per cent of the boys and 24 per cent of the girls entering vocational schools in Drogheda completed the two-year course, he will investigate the reasons for this waste of human talent.
I understand that the figures quoted by the Deputy relate to student enrolments in 1965-66 and I am aware that the position since then has greatly improved.
The carrying out of an investigation on the lines suggested by the Deputy would be a matter for the Town of Drogheda Vocational Education Committee.