Educational 'league tables'

Madam, - I cannot believe that the Minister for Education is contemplating the publication of "league tables" for our schools…

Madam, - I cannot believe that the Minister for Education is contemplating the publication of "league tables" for our schools. Surely he must realise that this would be a retrograde step which would not bode well for children in more deprived areas. Has he considered the damaging effects this would have, not alone on them and on their teachers, but on society?

We need to create a more inclusive society, and this is not the way to go about it. I think the Minister needs to take a few lessons in psychology and forget about the rhetoric. When he has learned a bit of empathy, he can then consider his next move. In the meantime, he should leave our school system alone. - Yours, etc.,

JOAN DORAN, Sutton Park, Dublin 13.