Striking at the heart of the matter

THE ferocious row between the Minister for Education and the Gaelscoileanna this autumn over the recognition of new all Irish schools may only be a foretaste of the discord to come.

Likewise, the strike threat by the INTO over the allocation of just 30 primary teaching posts pales into insignificance when one considers that the total fall in student numbers is equivalent to more than 5,000 teaching posts.

If the education partners cannot sort out relatively minor arguments such as those which have blown up this year, what hope is there of reaching an accord on a long term rationalisation which is in the best interests of pupils?

The next flashpoint is likely to involve the VECs. The forthcoming report of the commission on school accommodation needs is certain to recommend the abolition of the smaller VECs, and the closure or amalgamation of many vocational schools is likely to follow.

Vocational schools are on average smaller than other types of second level schools; 36 per cent have fewer than 250 pupils, compared to 20 per cent overall.

In contrast to the decline of many vocational schools, the challenge posed by the Gaelscoileanna is one of rapid expansion. In many areas, the success of all Irish schools is accelerating the decline of mainstream schools.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education is left with the financial headache of funding two competing schools in an area, instead of one. And since these schools get 100 per cent grants for school sites and buildings, higher capitation grants, a better pupil/teacher ratio and special allowances for teachers, the burden on the taxpayer is proportionately greater.

The Irish language movement argues, rightly, that the Gaelscoileanna are a successful example of parental choice in action, but that doesn't mean the education system is getting good value for money.

In a shrinking system, it could be that the demand for all Irish schooling should be met by means other than setting up new schools.

Joe O'Toole believes there is a demand for "open" schools which would meet the requirements of children from all denominations and backgrounds. He also sees merit in separate all Irish streams in mainstream schools, or proposals which would allow schools to change status.

"There are only a certain number of schools there, and any new ones will impact on the existing ones. What we don't want to see played is a game of musical chairs," he says.