Vol. 568 No. 1
399 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the way in which he proposes to implement the new junior cycle science syllabus in schools in which no science lab exists such as in Tuam vocational school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15980/03]
A revised syllabus for science at higher and ordinary levels will be introduced on an optional basis in September 2003 for examination in the junior certificate examination in 2006 and following years. My Department has issued a circular letter to the management authorities of second level schools inviting them to opt in to implementing the revised syllabus from 2003/04 and, if their school is in the free education scheme, to apply for a once-off equipment/resource grant by completing the accompanying application form. Applications for 2003-04 are required to be submitted to the Department by 31 October 2003.
A small number of schools are not in a position, with optimum timetabling, to provide a double period per week access to laboratory facilities for the students concerned. My Department's building unit is entering into discussions with these schools to see how best their needs can be addressed as quickly as possible. In the interim, the old syllabus will continue to be offered and available as an examination subject. Provision of facilities for the revised junior certificate science syllabus will be prioritised in the 2004 capital budget.
