asked the Minister for Education if he will comment on the recent statement by the Catholic Primary School Managers Association (details supplied) indicating that there will be a severe cutback in services for primary school children as a result of the 1980 Budget.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Primary Schools Services Cut-back.
I do not wish to comment on the reported statement other than to say that it would seem to me to be based on a complete misunderstanding of the actual situation. The House has been informed in the Estimates debate of the substantial sums being allocated by the Government for primary education.
The Minister is obviously aware in this case that there will be a severe cutback in services for primary schools as a result of the 1980 budget. Is he aware that at present approximately £270 is spent per pupil in the national schools against £660 per pupil in vocational schools? Would he not think that the primary sector is being neglected by this Government as regards expenditure per pupil? Is the Minister aware that if the Government are concerned with the basic education of our children he will have to invest more money in the primary schools sector?
The Minister is aware that he has increased the capitation grant substantially in this area and that the total provision is well over £177 million in this sector in this year.
Is the Minister not aware that the Catholic Primary School Managers' Association have made a public statement in this matter? Do I take it that the Minister feels the association are not familiar with these troubles?
It is very strange that the Deputy's lacrimose glands were very inactive over a period of years and are very active now in the manner of the crocodile.
(Interruptions.)
On a point of order, I wish to protest that we at Question Time are experiencing only a Shakespearean tragedy played by the Minister for Education.
Alas, poor Yorick, I knew him well.
Question No. 8 postponed.