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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Nov 1999

Vol. 509 No. 6

Written Answers. - School Year.

Jack Wall

Question:

649 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department determines the mid-term break in October; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a school has not allowed its pupils a church holiday; if this policy is permitted by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21842/99]

The current position in relation to the length of the school year and other related issues was outlined to schools by circular in 1995. School authorities are obliged to ensure that schools adhere to the prescribed minimum number of teaching days per annum. At primary level the minimum number of teaching days per school year is 183, while at second level, schools are required to be open for teaching for 167 days.

Subject to the requirement in the primary sector that the schools must close for the months of July and August, the organisation and structure of the school year including the determination of mid-term breaks are matters for individual school management authorities.

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