Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
193. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Education and Youth the progress made on co-educational reform and proposed school amalgamations in Dublin Bay North, particularly in view of clear parental interest shown in recent surveys; the next steps in the decision making process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [70839/25]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy, that the decision-making authority for any change of status, including amalgamations and to co-educational, is the patron/trustees of the school concerned and it is open to any patron to submit proposals to the Department for consideration.
Any proposed change involves extensive consultation at local level and must be well planned and managed in a manner that accommodates the interests of students, parents, teachers, local communities and contributes to an inclusive education system.
The Patron and relevant stakeholders are also advised to consider the implications that any change of status proposal may have on factors such as school accommodation, funding, staffing and school transport so that an informed decision can be made.
I can confirm my Department has received a proposal of change to co-educational from a school in the area referred to, which is currently under review by Department officials.
