Vol. 571 No. 3
53 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science his proposals for the overhaul of education policy recently announced by his Department; the body by which the review will be carried out; when it will be concluded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21502/03]
I assume that the Deputy is referring to my comments that the time is appropriate for a wide ranging public consultation process concerning the future shape and direction of education in this country. I have made the point in talks with a wide range of education interest groups that, all too often, the debate on education matters can be somewhat insular and that the overwhelming focus upon immediate issues leaves little scope for long-term planing. It is my intention to put a process in place to address this deficit. My officials are finalising proposals to me and I expect to be in a position to give full details in the near future.
