Vol. 472 No. 3
169 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that persons (details supplied) in Dublin 7 have not had access to State education since May 1996; her views on whether failure to provide access raises issues of serious constitutional concern; if she will ensure that access will be provided as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23158/96]
This case was first brought to my attention on 18 November.
The selection and enrolment of pupils in second level schools is, in the first instance, the responsibility of individual schools. I understand that the family in question moved to Dublin just prior to the commencement of the school year. In cases such as this my Department endeavours, by a process of consultation with school management, to have the pupils in question placed in a school in their locality. These efforts, which by their nature can take some time, are ongoing in this case and every effort is being made to find an appropriate placement. I am satisfied that the State, in endeavouring to find a satisfactory solution to this problem, is carrying out its constitutional obligations.
