asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the concern of a number of parents of children attending Rathcoole National School, County Dublin who have been informed that their children are not being put forward to a higher class this year; and if he will make a statement in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Dublin School.
47.
Mr. R. Burke
I am aware of the concern of these parents and I am having the matter investigated.
I am arranging that a meeting be held at an early date between an inspector of my Department, the reverend manager of the school, the principal teacher and representatives of the parents concerned to discuss and, hopefully, to resolve satisfactorily, the issues involved.
Is the Minister aware that a letter was sent to his Department early in February about this matter and that little or no progress has been made since? Does he consider it fair to the parents that this matter should be left hanging in the balance?
Mr. R. Burke
The matter, in fact, is being investigated and I am awaiting a report.
The matter is being investigated since last February and no progress has been made. The same problem arose last year and the public representatives had to intervene. Why is the position left as it is?
Mr. R. Burke
I am not prepared to accept the Deputy's contention that the position is as bad as he suggests. The inspector is arranging meetings and investigating the matter. When he reports to me, I will take a decision in the matter.
A report has come to the parents of the area and to myself that there is no inspector available in the area.
Mr. R. Burke
The Deputy will appreciate that I have increased the inspectorate.
Will the Minister say what his reaction would be to concern expressed by parents in general with regard to the automatic promotion being requested by his Department? If a parent expressed concern and wished a child to be retained in the same class, would the Minister facilitate him?
I presume the Deputy is on the question. I cannot allow a deviation from Question No. 47.