asked the Minister for Education whether his attention has been drawn to a report regarding the alleged attitude of non co-operation by certain school managers to comprehensive education; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Comprehensive Education.
120.
I do not feel that anything in the report referred to by the Deputy would call for a statement from me.
Can the Minister confirm or deny the statement in the report that the secretary of his Department wrote a strong letter of rebuke to the Clerical Managers' Association?
All I can say in this regard is that, while we are not getting complete co-operation, we are getting a very considerable measure of co-operation. What is involved represents a break with tradition and it would not be possible to get unanimity of viewpoint overnight.
I am sure the Minister will agree with me, arising from his reply and from the questions which have been put down about the regional colleges and entrance to the National University of Ireland, that the dice are being loaded against the students in the vocational colleges from the point of view of university entrance in a way that should not appeal to him.
As people begin to see from practical examples the benefits of co-operation, I believe we shall be able to increase our rate of progress.
The Minister's approach is much more liberal than in regard to a recent case involving consultation.
I am very reasonable and always like to get the utmost co-operation from everybody.
Some people more than others.