42 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to introduce a six year post-primary cycle; if he will outline the timescale for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

52 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to introduce a six year post primary cycle, if he will outline the timescale for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

66 Mr. Connor asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to introduce a six year post primary cycle; if he will outline the timescale for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

71 Dr. Lee asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to introduce a six year post primary cycle; if he will outline the timescale for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 42, 52, 66 and 71 together.

As outlined in the Programme for Economic and Social Progress all pupils who commenced their post-primary education in the school year 1991-92 will have the option of a six-year post-primary school cycle. These pupils will commence their senior cycle programme in the school year 1994-95 and will be given the option of completing senior cycle in two or three years.