asked the Minister for Education whether it is the policy of his Department to encourage groups of parents who wish to have all-Irish schools started; and what conditions are laid down in this regard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - All-Irish Schools.
24.
The Department of Education has at all times given special attention and assistance to proposals for the establishment of all-Irish schools. The rules for national schools contain a special provision regarding the recognition of an all-Irish school in any district where a request for such recognition is made and where there is evidence that local support is sufficient to ensure the success of the school.
It must be clearly understood that it rests with the interested parties in any such locality, not only to produce evidence of such support but also to take the initial steps necessary to establish the school.
Every encouragement is given to the establishment of all-Irish post-primary schools. The only condition is that there should be a sufficient number of pupils to warrant the establishment of such a school.
May I ask the Minister if the difficulties in regard to the proposed setting up of an all-Irish school in south County Dublin have been overcome and when we might hope to see this school set up? Furthermore, is it correct that a particular teaching religious order have finally agreed to undertake the running of this school?
Yes. These difficulties have been cleared up and an order of nuns are taking over management of the school.
Could the Minister give the name of the teaching order?
The Mercy Order.
He is well ahead of the Deputy.
I want it recorded in Dáil Éireann.