Pre-school education and school entry age
The Minister said there were no current proposals for pre-school education. She could not guarantee the school entry age would remain unchanged, noting that children may start at four, compulsory schooling begins at six, and raising the entry age without statutory pre-school provision would be difficult.
asked the Minister for Education the proposals, if any, the Government have for the provision of a system of pre-school education which would be integrated with the primary school system; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Comment on this
There are no proposals at present to introduce a system of pre-school education under my Department.
Comment on this
Will the Minister undertake to ensure that the present school entry age will be maintained and not interfered with or raised in the absence of a pre-school system?
Comment on this
It is a separate question Deputy, but I am prepared to speak on it. In Ireland, the compulsory age for starting school is six. The pupils have the right to come to school from the age of four years, and more than half of the pupils in that age category come to school. The answer to the question you asked on whether I can guarantee the school entry age is, no. In this world I cannot guarantee anything, but I am of the opinion that raising the school entry age, without at the same time providing for statutory pre-school education as is the case in Europe, would be difficult. However I might add that the primary school arrangements whereby four year olds may go to school is ideal and very suitable. The Deputy has asked for a guarantee which I cannot give. I would be less than honest if I were to do so. All matters relating to education are constantly under review, as are all other Government Departments.
