asked the Minister for Education when the discussion paper which was to be prepared on the age of entry to school and the age of transfer is expected to be circulated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - School Entry and Transfer Ages.
23.
I anticipate that the discussion paper will be available for circulation by the end of May.
This has been quite a controversial issue. Can the Minister say if the discussion paper will contain information in regard to pre-school teaching?
The discussion document would cover the age of entry, the age of transfer and the length of the post-primary cycle.
Is it the intention of the Minister to issue the discussion document in May?
I envisage it will be available by the end of May.
Will it embrace the three subjects mentioned by the Minister?
Yes.
I should like the permission of the Ceann Comhairle to raise a question on the Adjournment. On two occasions the Chair disallowed a question Deputy Tunney and I had put forward in regard to the effect a dispute at third level colleges is having on students. Those students cannot continue their studies and there is now a threat to their examinations. Like many Members I have been approached by parents who are worried about this.
If the Deputy continues to talk for much longer she will be out of time.
The Chair has turned down our request for a Private Notice Question on two occasions and I am appealing to him to permit us to raise the matter on the Adjournment.
I will communicate with the Deputy. The Deputy should bear in mind that there will be two divisions this evening and whatever is allowed on the Adjournment will need to be operated by way of a stop watch.
Will it be in order to raise the matter on the Adjournment tomorrow?
The Deputy may make a separate request tomorrow morning. We only deal with one day at a time.
The Chair on two occasions turned down our request for a Private Notice Question.
Is the Minister willing to discuss this matter?
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.