Vol. 496 No. 1
210 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the provision of statutory rights of representation for parents on vocational education committees; when he will introduce legislation for this purpose; if it will be enacted in advance of the 1999 local government elections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22169/98]
I intend to introduce legislation to amend the Vocational Education Acts which will include provision for parental representation on vocational education committees. Before finalising legislative proposals, I will consult with the relevant contributors to this sector. I intend to introduce legislation as soon as possible after these consultations are complete. The enactment of legislation is of course a matter for the Oireachtas and will depend, among other things, on its legislative programme.
211 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the recommendations of the Murray report on the future of vocational education committees; if he will introduce legislation to give effect to these recommendations; if so, when he will introduce this legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22170/98]
The Commission on School Accommodation Needs, the Murray report, made proposals in October 1996 for the rationalisation of vocational education committees. With effect from 1 January 1998, five scheduled urban district vocational education committees have been amalgamated with their respective county VECs.
The strengthening of vocational education is an important part of my agenda and I am committed to full consultations with all contributors to this sector on any further initiatives in this area. I intend to introduce legislation as soon as possible after these consultations are complete.
