andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Education the proposed size of the classes in the 150 pupil school referred to by him in his recent references to changes in the educational system.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Changes in Educational System.
23.
It is envisaged that the staffing in these schools would be no less favourable than in secondary schools where it is one teacher for every 15 pupils up to 60 and one for every 20 pupils thereafter.
Has the Minister any plans for dealing with the rather swift increased demand for teachers which will arise?
We shall be able to handle that all right.
24.
andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Education whether he intends to publish a white paper giving details of the proposed changes in the educational system, including the likely cost.
The answer is no. I am satisfied that through my statement I have already made my proposals clear to all concerned.
In relation to cost, has the Minister taken a decision in principle against extending the free of direct charge principle which exists in relation to primary education? Has he taken a decision against extending that principle to the new comprehensive schools?
At the moment, the Government are undertaking to make some post-primary education available to everybody. That will involve free education in some cases.
Are we to take it that the new comprehensive schools will be free of any direct charge to parents, as is the case at present in respect of primary schools?
I have already said there will be a fee, which in cases of hardship, could be reduced.
Has the Minister decided to alter the principle which now exists in relation to primary schools, that is, free of direct charge? Has he received from the general public any indication that they are in any way dissatisfied with the general principle?
This is becoming an argument.
We are dealing with post-primary education. We are extending this to make it available to every child. In some cases, this will be done free of charge, where the situation warrants. We are meeting a problem well and not going into any doctrinaire principle.
Why is the Minister departing from the principle?
That is an argument.
There are two principles already in existence.
I am sure the Ceann Comhairle is grateful to the Minister for Health for his assistance and direction.
I did not hear it.
Deputy Dillon will help, I am sure.
25.
andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Education the total sum in the current estimates for his Department earmarked for the proposed changes in the educational system.
It will be seen from the replies given by me yesterday to other questions regarding this matter that the making of financial provision will arise only when the detailed surveys have been completed.
When does the Minister think these detailed surveys will be completed?
They are already under way. When you commence a task, you can never say with accuracy how long it will take. I am not a prophet.
Would it be a matter of six months, a year, three years?
I understand that time is measured in weeks, months and years. I said I am not a prophet and I cannot give the information right away.