Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 October 2024
201. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education if she will ensure that a proposal is progressed without further delay which would ensure the best school provision for an area (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43821/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm to the Deputy that the Department has received a request from the patrons of the schools in question, to amalgamate the two schools.
In November 2023, the Department issued a letter of approval to the Patron for the amalgamation to proceed.
The Department’s technical team have carried out an assessment of the schools and the proposed new site. The consideration of the accommodation requirements for the schools in question forms part of the Planning and Building Unit’s overall assessment of its work programme and priorities in the context of available capital funding.
As the Deputy will be aware the decision making authority for school amalgamations belongs to the patron or trustees of a school, and this is subject to the approval of the Minister for Education. Any proposed change must involve extensive negotiations 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 provision of required school places, including for children with special educational needs, is a priority for the Department. Officials are working to ensure that there is sufficient provision to meet the school place needs in the schools in question and the wider area for 2024/25 and future years.
Officials from the Department are available to discuss the proposed amalgamation with the Patron body.
