TEACHERS’ DISABILITIES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXV, Issue 1086, 19 April 1913, Page 2

TEACHERS’ DISABILITIES.

(To the Editoi.)

Sir, —The opponents of the platform of the Bible in State Schools League have made and published statements far and wide that the teachers in New South Wales are subjected to disabilities in regard to religious and other action, and have attempted to draw the conclusion that these alleged disabilities were the consequence of religious instruction in State Schools. I have before me the latest edition of the Public Instruction Act and regulations thereunder of New South Wales issued by the Government Printer 1912. There is nothing whatever in the Act itself imposing any restriction upon the teachers. In the regulations the only reference of the kind is section 30j which reads : “ Teachers are to refrain from all action in public . matters that will interfere with the welfare of the schools in their charge or with their usefulness as teachers.”

I refrain frdm comment upon the action of those who have sought to lead public opinion in this matter upon inadequate information. May I, however, draw attention to the fact that the regulation as to alleged disabilities quoted by our opponents actually exists and has existed in Queensland for over 30 years ; and that it originated and was in, existence when there was no religious instruction in State Schools. If our opponents had been anxious merely to arrive at the truth of the matter they would, in making references to New South Wales have also mentioned the fact that the regulation they quoted existed in Queensland, and could not be the consequence of religious instruction, because it was there when there was no religious instruction.—I am etc.

David J, Garland, Organising Secretary.