Frances Fitzgerald
Question:31 Ms F. Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Education if she will support the introduction of music in the school curriculum so as to offer the young people of Ireland the opportunity to express themselves through music.
Written Answers. - Development of Music.
On several occasions since my appointment as Minister for Education I have indicated my full support for the further development of music at all stages of the educational system.
Much excellent work is already going on in our primary schools as part of the integrated curriculum. As part of its overall review of the primary curriculum, the NCCA will make specific proposals on the development of music.
At second-level, a new syllabus is already in place for junior cycle. An important objective will be that it will encourage creative involvement by pupils and enhance their ability to enjoy and appreciate music. The revised senior cycle syllabus will develop these objectives further. While there has been an increased take-up at junior cycle I am concerned that the number of girls far exceeds that of boys. (in junior cycle girls outnumber boys by 3:1 and at senior cycle by 4:1.
The new transition year arrangement, beginning in 1994, will give an opportunity to schools to include interesting and varied programmes in the arts, including music for all pupils, without the stress of an examination.