Gerry Reynolds
Question:31 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Education if he will outline the steps which are being taken to encourage educational co-operation at EC level; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - EC Educational Co-operation.
Tom Enright
Question:56 Mr. Enright asked the Minister for Education if he will outline the steps which are being taken to encourage educational co-operation at EC level; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
John Connor
Question:57 Mr. Connor asked the Minister for Education if he will outline the steps which are being taken to encourage educational co-operation at EC level; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Dinny McGinley
Question:93 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education if he will outline the steps which are being taken to encourage educational co-operation at EC level; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31, 56, 57 and 93 together.
There is no specific provision in existing EC law enabling member states to take Community action in the field of education. However, Community action in the field of vocational training is provided for in Article 128 of the Treaty of Rome.
The new draft Treaty on political union, which will amend some of the provisions of existing treaties, contains a composite article replacing Article 128 and providing for Community action in both fields. Among the areas proposed for joint action in the field of education are: the European dimension in education; mobility of students and teachers; co-operation between schools; and distance education.
The draft article was considered and approved by the Ministers for Education meeting in Council in Brussels on 25 November.