asked the Minister for Education whether he intends that the National College of Art shall reopen; and, if so, when.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National College of Art.
87.
It is the intention that the National College of Art shall reopen for the 1969-70 session towards the end of September.
88.
asked the Minister for Education whether he intends to introduce legislation concerning the National College of Art; and, if so, when.
This matter is being considered and it is hoped to reach a decision on it at an early date.
Is the Minister aware that there is very deep and widespread concern on the subject of the state and condition of the National College of Art, not only among students and parents of students and staff, but among all in this country who are concerned with the question both of art and of design, including commercial and industrial design, and among those who welcomed the Minister for Finance's recent initiative towards creating an environment favourable to the arts and artists in this country?
I am sure the Deputy is aware that an advisory council was set up, which included the professors and students and so on, and that they are examining certain aspects of the workings of the College of Art and will make recommendations. These will then be considered.
Will these recommendations be placed before this House?
The Deputy's question was as to whether it was intended to introduce legislation. I pointed out that the matter is being considered and it is hoped to reach a decision at an early date. If it is a matter for legislation, then it will obviously come before the House.
Will the Minister not agree that, whether this is a matter for legislation or not, it is important that the public mind should be set at rest on this matter and that those who are interested in the future of the National College of Art should have some reassurance?
The Deputy can take it that I am interested in the future of the National College of Art also.