Michael Bell
Question:40 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has for the introduction of a three year infant cycle in primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7529/98]
Written Answers. - Early Childhood Education.
I am happy to inform the Deputy that the National Forum on Early Childhood Education is taking place all this week in Dublin Castle. The forum is bringing together service providers and experts in the field for the purpose of advising me on a strategy for the future development of early childhood education services. My objective in holding the national forum is to allow all groups with an interest in the area of early childhood education to put forward their views as to how best to co-ordinate and support the future development of services in this area.
The forum's deliberations cover the ages from birth to six years, and, accordingly, include what is currently the infant cycle in primary schools. I would not wish to pre-empt the outcome of the forum on this or on any other matter but will await the forum's conclusions before making any proposals.
Following the conclusion of the national forum, an independent report of its proceedings and conclusions will be prepared by the independent secretariat and published under the authority of the secretary general to the forum. This report will be an important document in its own right and will be an important input into a White Paper on early childhood education, work on which will commence following the forum.