asked the Minister for Education if his Department have reached a decision regarding Killourney National School, Ballypatrick, Clonmel, County Tipperary; and, if so, the decision in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Tipperary School.
56.
Mr. R. Burke
I understand that the parents of the children attending Killurney National School are, generally, in agreement with a proposal to amalgamate that school with Kilcash National School, in view of the better educational facilities that could be given to the children of both school areas under such an arrangement.
Arrangements to effect the amalgamation will be completed with the least possible delay.
I would nearly ask the Minister to repeat that reply because I cannot believe that he would read what he read. What survey has the Minister taken from all concerned, particularly the general body of parents? As far as I am concerned, from representations made to me this is not so. All parents whom Oireachtas Members met want the national school to be re-opened.
Mr. R. Burke
I agree with the Deputy that that seems to be the situation but he will appreciate that we must get the agreement of all people involved, management and parents, before we can finalise the matter. I understand that the meeting which took place was called and that the manager in question was not notified of it. If another meeting is held, I suggest to the Deputy that the manager be brought in on it.
The manager was later informed of the meeting. Indeed, he was informed of it earlier that day by the headmaster of the school. Perhaps the Minister knows more about Killurney than I do and the areas surrounding it—Ballypatrick and Kilcash—but as far as I am aware the parents still want the school in Killurney, and the reverend manager there is prepared to accept the bidding of the parents.
Mr. R. Burke
I would suggest that another meeting be held of all the interests with adequate notification to all concerned.