asked the Minister for Education the steps, if any, she proposes to take to provide for the orderly rationalisation of primary schools in the Dublin inner city area who now find that the population within their catchment area is declining; the criteria that would be employed in regard to (a) the choice of school building where more than one school building exists and is surplus to needs (b) the question of co-education if schools in the same catchment area have previously provided single sex education (c) the method of integration of existing boards of management where that arises and (d) the rights of parents in relation to expressing their views and exercising choice with regard to the above factors; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Rationalisation of Primary Schools.
14.
The rationalisation of primary schools is normally, in the first instance, a matter for local consideration. As part of this process, boards of management are required to consult with parents and teachers.
Any proposals received from boards of management will be examined on their merits and the views, as expressed, in relation to the various aspects of the proposals will be taken into account by my Department in arriving at a decision.