asked the Minister for Education if the present system of inspection of national schools is the same as obtained prior to 1922; whether he is aware that it is not satisfactory; and if he will amend it.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National School Inspection.
The system of inspection of national schools which operated prior to 1922 was revised in 1927 following the receipt of a report furnished by a committee of inquiry which was set up by the Minister for Education to investigate the working of the former system. Included on that committee were representatives of the school managers, the Irish National Teachers' Organisation and the Department. A further modification was made in 1948 by the abolition of the "Highly Efficient" rating following a conference which also included representatives of these interests.
Another conference was held on 31st January and 1st February, 1956, at which the views of the various parties concerned were presented. These views are at present under examination but pending their final consideration I am not in a position to make a statement on the matter.