Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 April 2026
481. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of school closures that have been recorded over the past year in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27927/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy, that the decision-making authority for any change of status, including school closures, 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.
As referred by the Deputy, two primary schools have closed in County Donegal over the past year.
