School Management

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Questions (564)

Michael Murphy

Question:

564. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current status of the request submitted by the board of management of a school (details supplied), through its patron, to commence a formal consultation process regarding the transition of the school from an all-girls post-primary school to a co-educational model; when a decision is expected to issue from her Department; the criteria being applied by her Department in assessing such requests; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9418/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Education and Youth

I wish to advise the Deputy, that the decision-making authority for any change of status is the patron/trustees of the schools 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.

My Department has not received an application for change of status from the school referred by the Deputy.