asked the Minister for Education the plans, if any, she has to bring second level schools together in order to plan more effectively because of scarce resources; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
661.
Written Answers. - Second Level School Facilities.
660.
asked the Minister for Education the way in which she intends to bring greater co-operation and harmony between all the different types of second level schools in Ireland.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 660 and 661 together. I am very concerned to achieve at all times the most effective and cost-efficient use of available resources. To this end my Department will continue to pursue vigorously its policy of rationalisation in the provision of second level facilities, to ensure the maximum utilisation of all existing resources.
Consultations will take place with the different management bodies to secure the level of agreement necessary for the successful implementation of this policy. Where rationalisation is not practicable my Department will take all possible initiatives to encourage schools to explore, expand and further develop areas of co-operation with a view to providing the best possible educational opportunity for all their pupils.