Vol. 512 No. 1
65 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has satisfied himself with the level of physical education provision in the primary and post-primary schools; the number of post-primary schools without the services of a full-time physical education teacher; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25317/99]
At primary level, as part of the revised primary school curriculum, 1999, all teachers in national schools have recently been issued with a new programme in physical education. It is recommended that a minimum of one hour per week should be allocated to physical education in primary schools. In-career professional development in physical education will form part of the ongoing primary curriculum support programme for implementing the new curriculum.
At post-primary level it is recommended that a minimum of one hour per week should be allocated to physical education. New programmes in physical education at both junior and leaving certificate are being developed by the NCCA. It is intended that all second-level students should avail of a programme in physical education. These new programmes are being designed with the intention of achieving this objective.
Details of the number of second level schools without the services of a full-time physical education teacher are not readily available.
