Madam, – In suggesting that private schools, whose admission policies exclude minorities, should be penalised, Seán Flynn fails to notice, (or chooses to ignore), the majority of pupils who are excluded from such schools by virtue of their parents’ inability to pay the fees required for private education (“How Quinn can make a difference”, Education Today, March 15th).
In this context I find it incredible that the removal of the €100 million in State support received annually by fee-paying schools does not feature in his action plan for Irish education.
Is it not reasonable to expect that these schools should charge a fee that would allow them to function without State subvention or else fully opt in to the “free” education system? – Yours, etc,
Madam, – I wish to commend Seán Flynn for his veritable manifesto for reform of Irish education (Education Today, March 15th). Like thousands of others, my education in Ireland was a gateway for me. Having studied and worked in four countries since graduating from UCD in 2003, it is my view that, while the Irish education system undoubtedly boasts numerous strengths, the case for radical reform is compelling.
Mr Flynn’s manifesto provides a solid basis to realise that reform. Let’s hope that it features on Mr Quinn’s compulsory reading list! – Yours, etc,
Madam, – I was disappointed when I read Seán Flynn’s action plan for the new Minister for Education Ruairí Quinn. Nowhere did he mention students with special needs. It was almost as if they do not exist in the current education system. Perhaps he could make a recommendation that the Minister does not cut resources to these children any further? – Yours, etc,