677 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will recognise CDET accredited colleges as centres of excellence in dance training; and if he will provide the means necessary for dance students to receive further education abroad. [11247/02]

678 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans for a comprehensive and full dance education system for the training of dancers and choreographers to professional level. [11248/02]

696 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department will examine and review the way in which professional dance training can be assisted by his Department (details supplied). [11318/02]

697 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Education and Science his proposals to introduce a comprehensive and full dance education system for the training of dancers and choreographers to professional level here. [11336/02]

698 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will recognise dance colleges in the UK which are Council for Dance Education and Training accredited colleges giving training to professional standard; if he will consider providing the means necessary for dance students to receive further education abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11337/02]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 677, 678 and 696 to 698, inclusive, together.

At present, dance is a component of the physical education programme at primary and post-primary level. In the leaving certificate applied programme dance is a separate element and is formally examined. A number of schools also offer a post leaving certificate course in dance and students can study it up to Further Education and Training Awards Council level 2. At third level, dance is an element of the undergraduate physical education course at the University of Limerick and further post-graduate opportunities are provided for students who wish to pursue study in the area of dance. I have also announced the plans to develop the Irish Academy for the Performing Arts. The academy will initially provide under-graduate and post-graduate training in music, dance and drama. The professional dance education facility will be based at the Institute for Choreography and Dance at Firkin Crane in Cork. The academy will also have a strong research and development arm and a strong continuing professional development role. The development of the academy will be driven forward by the interim governing authority, which I shall be establishing shortly.