It is my intention to introduce legislation to strengthen the vocational education sector and that this will provide for the representation of parents on vocational education committees. In finalising legislative proposals I am consulting with the relevant stakeholders in the sector, including parents, and I am giving their views careful consideration. As I have indicated previously, it will not be possible that the new statutory provision will be in place before the local elections, which will take place next June. I expect to be in a position to publish the Bill in mid 1999.
As an interim measure, and in view of the pending legislation, my Department will be in contact with local authorities with a view to encouraging them to exercise their powers so as to ensure an appropriate representation of parents on vocational education committees after the next local elections. I intend also that the provisions in the amending legislation with regard to representation on vocational education committees will be implemented from a current date when enacted.
My Department has engaged in very useful discussions with the National Parents' Council on this matter and the legislative proposals generally.
