§ Mr. O'DONNELLasked the Chief Secretary whether he has considered the proposal of the National Education Board to establish higher grade schools in Ireland similar to those established in England, Scotland, and the Continent; whether, as stated in the Board's report, they have advocated this scheme for years without success; and whether, seeing the general dissatisfaction that prevails as regards higher education in Ireland, he will consider the advisability of appointing a committee to report on the whole question?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Commissioners of National Education have recommended the establishment of higher grade schools in Ireland, but it was not found possible to make provision in the Estimates 1911–12 for this purpose. I do not think that it would be advisable at the present moment to appoint a committee to report upon the question of higher education in Ireland.