asked the Minister for Education if it is his intention to close all schools that have an attendance of less than 22 pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - School Closures.
85.
Mr. R. Burke
In normal circumstances as the opportunity offers the educational interests of the children may require that recognition be withdrawn from a one-teacher school and suitable arrangements made for its amalgamation with another school to form a larger educational unit.
In connection with a proposal for the amalgamation of schools in any area the particular circumstances of the individual school receive the fullest consideration and there is full consultation with the local interests involved before final decisions are taken.
The general approach to the amalgamation of small schools is indicated in my speech in the House on 23rd October, 1973 when introducing the Estimates for my Department— Official Report, Vol, 268, No. 3—and on 8th November, 1973, when closing the debate—Official Repart, Vol. 268, No. 11.