asked the Minister for Education if her Department consults the relevant parents' organisations at school and/or national level, when the rationalisation of post-primary schools is under consideration by her Department; her views on whether parent organisations should be consulted on such matters; and the instruction she has given or will give her officials in this regard.
Written Answers. - Consultations with Parents' Organisations.
229.
It has not been my Department's practice to consult with parents' organisations at national level in the matter of rationalisation of post-primary facilities. However, it is open to such groups to make their views known to my Department either on the general issue or in respect of particular cases.
Where the question of rationalisation of post-primary facilities is being considered in respect of any area lengthy discussions and negotiations take place during which the views of all interested parties, including local parents, are taken into account.
I have made it clear to my officials that the fullest possible consultation must take place in all such cases.