asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the deadlocked situation which has arisen, he will arrange a mutual agreement between the president and students of Carysfort Training College, Dublin on the institution of a union constitution.
45.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Carysfort Training College.
44.
asked the Minister for Education if he is satisfied that the conditions prevailing in Carysfort Training College, Dublin are suited to the training of teachers.
Mr. R. Burke
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 45 together.
I am naturally concerned about the effect of the present dispute on the training course for the students concerned. As, however, the matters involved relate to the administration of an autonomous educational institution, it would not be appropriate for me to intervence.
Would it not be possible for the Minister to use all the prestige attached to his office to try to bring about an agreement between the student body on the one hand and the authorities on the other so that the work of training teachers could proceed?
Mr. R. Burke
The Deputy will no doubt be glad to know that the Archbishop of Dublin, who is the manager of the school, has met both parties and negotiations are continuing We all hope for a happy outcome to those negotiations.
Is the Minister aware that at a recent conference on the education of the 15 to 18 age group in St. Patrick's Drumcondra, it was agreed that the students in that age group should be consulted about the curricula and, if that is the position with that age group, would he not agree it should also be the position in the older and more important age group?
Mr. R. Burke
The Deputy knows very well the type of consultation involved. I agree that the views of students should be taken into account in the training curricula. If that is what the Deputy has in mind, I agree with it.
Would the Minister receive a deputation from the students, if necessary?
Mr. R. Burke
I should not like to think it would be necessary for me to receive a deputation of the students. However, if all other measures fail, I shall certainly use my good offices, if required to do so.