asked the Minister for Education the extent of the cut-back in expenditure on in-service training for teachers at all levels for the year 1975.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Teacher Training Expenditure.
8.
Mr. R. Burke
The estimated expenditure by my Department on in-service courses for 1975 is estimated at £27,500. The estimate for 1974 was £180,500.
Did the Minister consider the expenditure on in-service courses last year to be necessary and adequate?
Mr. R. Burke
I should think that in-service courses are very desirable.
If in 1974 more than £180,000 was spent on the provision of adequate in-service training for teachers, how, considering the level of inflation and so on, can the Minister regard £27,500 to be adequate this year?
Mr. R. Burke
I have told the Deputy that estimated expenditure for this purpose this year is £27,500 compared with £180,500 last year. Obviously, there is a reduction. It is there for all to see.
Would the Minister not consider the onus to be on him to convince the Government that a drastic cut of this nature is disastrous for teachers?
Mr. R. Burke
There are many burdens on me besides this one.
I cannot hear the Minister's replies.
Mr. R. Burke
I said that there are many burdens on me besides this one.