Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 May 1996

Vol. 466 No. 1

Written Answers. - Multi-Denominational Schools Recognition.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

141 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for Education the criteria used for granting temporary or provisional and permanent recognition to groups attempting to form multi-denominational schools; the regulations and conditions applied; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10784/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The criteria at present governing the consideration of applications for recognition as multi-denominational schools are set out in the following appendix.

The recently established commission on school accommodation needs is due to review the criteria for the recognition of new primary schools, including multi-denominational schools, as part of its remit.

Appendix

Criteria for the consideration of applications for recognition as Multi-Denominational Schools

1. That there is a need for a separate school to meet the demand for multi-denominational education in the district in question. Account must therefore be taken of any existing facilities for such education in the general area.

2. That prospective publis will be available in sufficient numbers to establish and maintain a viable school. In the normal course, it would be expected that the school would, when fully developed, be sufficiently large to sustain a staff of Principal and eight assistants, so that each standard would have an individual teacher.

3. That the school will be managed and conducted in accordance with the Rules for National Schools. The Board of Management will be appointed and constituted in accordance with the booklet "Boards of Management of National Schools — Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure".

The rules allow for the recognition of a body of persons as Patron. Such a body must be incorporated as a limited Company under the Companies Act for this purpose.

4. That the promoters of the school demonstrate that the schools will be multi-denominational in aspect and provide a policy document on the religious education programme proposed for the school.

5. That the promoters of the school provide suitable temporary premises for the school, until such time as a permanent school building can be provided.

Schools are initially accorded provisional recognition. The onus of providing accommodation during this period rests with the promoters; grant-aid is given towards the cost of renting temporary accommodation until a permanent building can be provided. Permanent recognition may be granted after the school has been operating satisfactorily for a number of years and is showing clear signs of growth. At that stage, the question of permanent accommodation may also be considered in the light of available capital resources.