Vol. 495 No. 4
378 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science the manner in which his Department discharges its mission statement in respect of those children who attend internationally recognised primary schools, including Steiner education schools, which have not been afforded recognition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20016/98]
The position generally is that my Department provides for free primary education through a network of primary schools established throughout the country with State assistance. These schools are fully recognised by my Department, with the exception of a small number of new schools, operating with temporary recognition while their progress is being monitored.
To qualify for recognition, primary schools are required to meet the requirements of the Rules for National Schools, with particular regard to curricular provision and teacher qualifications.
The recognition of the Steiner schools is at present the subject of legal proceedings. In the circumstances, I do not propose to make further comment at this stage.
