Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 31 Mar 1992

Vol. 417 No. 9

Written Answers. - Education Green Paper.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

44 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education if, in the light of the Taoiseach's statement that the Green Paper is being revised to include an enterprise ethos, he will outline, (a) the precise meaning of an enterprise ethos, (b) if this will be done at the expense of changing the orientation of the education system away from preparation for life in general and (c) when, as a result of the changes now being made, the Green Paper will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mr. S. Brennan)

I would define education for enterprise broadly as an education aimed at developing in young people enterprising qualities such as initiative, creativity, self-confidence, interpersonal skills, planning ability and problem solving capacity so that they will be more innovative and enterprising whatever their role in society, including their contribution to the country's economic development.

The development of an enterprise ethos in the education system would not, therefore, conflict in any way with the aims and objectives of education in preparing children for life in general.

My proposals in this matter will be outlined in the Green Paper.

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 199 today in regard to when the Green Paper will be published.