§ 47. Mr. BOLANDasked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) whether his attention has been called to the new industry which it is pro posed to establish in the city of Cork; whether the existing schemes of technical instruction are so framed as to permit of special instruction being given in the methods of manufacture which will be employed in this new industry; and, if not, will steps be taken to ensure that students who are likely to obtain employment in this new industry will be given every facility, under a scheme of technical instruction, to fit themselves for this special form of employment?
§ Mr. DUKEThe Department are aware through the public Press of the proposed new industry in Cork. A scheme of engineering instruction is in operation in 468 the Cork Municipal Technical School, and provision is made under the Department's programme for technical schools for the instruction of workers in engineering and other trades. The Department will be glad to facilitate as far as they can any developments and adaptations in the existing provision for technical instruction which may seem advisable.
§ Sir P. MAGNUSTo what special industry does the question refer?
§ Mr. DUKEIt refers to the proposed establishment of a constructive factory in Cork, which it is expected and hoped will be of great advantage to the population of Cork and the South of Ireland.
§ Mr. LYNCHWill the right hon. and learned gentleman take advantage of this occasion to greatly extend technical education so as to make it something really vital and practical in the life of the country?
§ Mr. DUKEThe Department which has, as one of its functions, to deal with technical instruction will be very glad indeed to fulfil the functions contained in the answer.