asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that the downgrading of music in the leaving certificate has resulted in a serious decline in the number of students taking it as a subject; and if he regards this as a desirable development.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Leaving Certificate Music.
24.
I am not aware that the position is as represented by the Deputy. There was no downgrading of music as a subject in the new syllabus which was introduced in 1974 on the recommendation of the Syllabus Committee who are representative of teachers' organisations, managerial associations and the relevant university faculties as well as representatives of the Department of Education. This syllabus was examined at leaving certificate level for the first time in 1976 and a difficulty arose when university authorities did not accord the same recognition in the allotment of points for results on the common paper which was recommended by the Syllabus Committee as they do for results on higher course papers. This matter has been taken up by the Department with the university authorities.
So far as numbers taking the subject as part of their leaving certificate course is concerned the position is as follows:
|
School Year |
Number of Pupils |
|
1973-74 |
3,268 |
|
1974-75 |
2,823 |
|
(First year present syllabus was introduced) |
|
|
1975-76 |
3,473 |
The figures for 1976-77 are not yet available.
Would the Minister agree that due to the points system which has been introduced for admission to the universities, a student who has competence in and dedication to music is at a disadvantage if there is not available a higher grade paper?
The influence of universities on secondary education is a matter which, as the Deputy will no doubt remember, has been a bone of contention for some time. I agree with the Deputy that the allotment of points by the universities has an effect on the second level syllabus. However, I hasten to point out that the allotment of points is not something over which I have direct control but I have asked the university authorities to reconsider this position.
Will the Minister give an assurance that he will get officers of his Department to consult with the appropriate music people in the universities to establish a higher course in music which will attract points at a higher course level?
I will await the reply of the university authorities to my request to reconsider the allotment of points. There are inconsistencies even within the National University. UCC are understood to allot five points to grade A of the music and musicianship paper whereas UCD offer only three points. This is a matter which is outside my direct control but I am glad of the opportunity to direct the attention of the public to the fact that contrary to some recent publicity this is a matter for the university authorities.
Does the Minister not agree that he has special responsibility as Minister for Education to ensure rationalisation in this as in other educational fields, and would he get a conference going representing his Department and all the universities to regularise it in the interests of music education?
I am taking steps to see that the matter is improved. Universities are autonomous bodies and I cannot force them to do even desirable things.