asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the public anxiety caused by the new matriculation requirements of the National University of Ireland; if he will make a statement on the matter; whether or not he was informed before National University announced the new regulations; and how the new regulations affect the whole future of children pursuing comprehensive education many of whom would hope to reach university level from technical schools.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - NUI Matriculation Requirements.
83.
I would refer the Deputies to my reply to a similar question on the 4th of this month.
This is a matter of very considerable urgency affecting the educational prospects of children. Some progress report should be given to the House today or some intimation as to when we may get a progress report.
It is a very important matter. We already had consultations with one university and will have them soon with the other.
Do the new regulations apply to subjects that already existed or do they apply to new subjects?
I would say that, in the main, they refer to the new subjects.
In the discussions that took place, was it indicated to the universities that there was no intention of accepting them as university entrance subjects? Were the university representatives asked to agree to them because they would be terminal subjects for post-primary education? Has there been some confusion in this matter?
No.
Can the Minister give an assurance for the benefit of students attending vocational schools, who will be doing their examination in 1971, that they will not be deprived of the opportunity of going to the university?
I am most anxious that they would not be deprived of such an opportunity.