asked the Minister for Education in how many national schools manager-teacher-parent associations along the lines suggested by the Roman Catholic Hierarchy now exist; and in how many cases these associations have elected committees.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - School Associations.
93.
This is a matter for local initiative and there is no onus on those concerned to furnish information to my Department in any case where such an association is formed.
The Minister's predecessor expressed himself in favour of this development. Does the Minister not feel an obligation to find out whether this desirable development is or is not taking place, and on what scale it is taking place? Would the Minister seek this information?
There is no onus on anyone concerned to furnish the Department with this information. I am anxious to have the best possible relationships between parents and teachers. How this can be achieved is a matter for local initiative. It is something which should grow up rather than be forced on people.
The Minister's predecessor said he was in favour of it. The Roman Catholic Hierarchy have sent out a circular in favour of it. Would the Minister accept that an inquiry from his Department as to whether such a committee exists would draw attention to the fact that the Minister is in favour of this development? I agree that it should grow up naturally but a little encouragement from the State as well as from the Church would be of assistance.
I would prefer to see the natural growth of such a development.
If, in fact, the Minister favours the setting up of such committees he has not yet gone on record as saying so.
I favour whatever will promote the best possible teacher-parent relationships.