asked the Minister for Education if he will consider allowing children under eight years of age to attend school for three hours instead of four hours for the period mid-November to mid-February to allow these children to go to school in daylight.
Ceisteann—Questions. Oral Answers. - School Attendance Hours.
75.
Mr. Barry
The period of secular instruction to be provided in national schools must be at least four hours per day. In respect of a child enrolled in an infants' class or first standard, however, the time required for an attendance, as defined in the Rules, may be reduced by one hour. I would like to add that primary school managers have been advised that they are free to postpone school opening for not more than one hour during the period from 1st November to 1st March following.
I do not think the managers are aware of this. Could the Minister circularise this information to them? The managers are aware that they can re-arrange the hours but I do not think they are aware that infant classes can be reduced by an hour. This will alleviate a lot of hardship in the dark mornings because these children can come in later.
I am sure the managers are aware of this but in any case the matter, no doubt, will now receive publicity.