Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 May 1998

Vol. 490 No. 7

Written Answers. - Physical Education Places.

Louis J. Belton

Question:

35 Mr. Belton asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to allocate additional funding for the provision of additional third level places in physical education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10955/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

The current quota of 35 admissions to physical education teacher training was set by my Department in consultation with the Higher Education Authority and the University of Limerick. As part of its statutory functions the Higher Education Authority advises me on the demand and the need for courses in the university sector. In this regard, the Higher Education Authority has not received any proposals to increase the current intake of students to physical education teacher training.

However, a working group, under the aegis of the HEA, is undertaking an in-depth review of future needs for second level teachers. This review is focusing both on total needs and on needs by subject group, where feasible. In the course of its work the working group will consider the needs for physical education teachers.