asked the Minister for Education when the discussion paper which was to be prepared on the age of entry to school and the age of transfer is expected to be circulated.

I anticipate that the discussion paper will be available for circulation by the end of May.

This has been quite a controversial issue. Can the Minister say if the discussion paper will contain information in regard to pre-school teaching?

The discussion document would cover the age of entry, the age of transfer and the length of the post-primary cycle.

Is it the intention of the Minister to issue the discussion document in May?

I envisage it will be available by the end of May.

Will it embrace the three subjects mentioned by the Minister?

Yes.