§ MR. O'DOWDI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he has received from the Rev. M. Keaneny, P.P., of Charlestown, county Mayo, copies of resolutions recently adopted by the clerical managers of national schools in the diocese of Achenry protesting against the issue by the Commissioners of National Education of Rule 127 (b); and whether, in view of the effect of this rule on Irish country school children and of the protests made against it, the rule will be withdrawn.
§ MR. WALTER LONGThe rule has not yet come into operation. I have already stated the reasons for its adoption, and the extent to which the Commissioners have agreed to qualify its application. The rule was made solely in the interests of Irish school children under eight years of age.
§ MR. THOMAS O'DONNELL (Kerry, W.)How many assistant teachers will be thrown out of employment by enforcement of this rule?
§ MR. WALTER LONGI cannot answer that Question off-hand. The matter has, however, been carefully considered. The rule is in the interest of school children of a particular age, and the result on the teachers is a totally different question which does not arise here.
† See page 940.
§ MR. THOMAS O'DONNELLBut where the boys are removed an assistant teacher will of necessity lose his employment?
§ MR. WALTER LONGObviously, in the adoption of any rules of this kind, whether in Ireland or in England, there must be some effect on the teacher, but the object is to benefit the children, and I am informed as a matter of fact that no injustice is done by this rule to the teachers.
§ MR. THOMAS O'DONNELLIf, as I understand, 600 men will be thrown out of employment, after they have given their lives to the service, what is to be done with them?
§ MR. WALTER LONGThat is a hypothetical Question. First, it will be necessary to ascertain if it is a fact; and, if it be so, then will be the time to consider whether there is any remedy.