Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Jan 1998

Vol. 486 No. 1

Written Answers. - Multidenominational Schools.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

860 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will list the counties which do not have a multidenominational or non-denominational primary school; the total number or primary school pupils in each of those counties; the way in which his Department will respond to demands for this schooling from parents in these counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1434/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin):

Details of the counties with no multidenominational school, and of the number of pupils in each of those counties, are contained in the following tabular statement, which I propose to circulate with the Official Report. There are no recognised non-denominational schools, as such, in the State.

My Department is prepared to support the establishment of a multidenominational school in areas where sufficient demand for such a facility is demonstrated and where there are no existing facilities for such education in the general area.

The criteria for the recognition of all categories of national schools, including multidenominational schools, were the subject of a major review carried out by the Commission on School Accommodation Needs. Current policy in this regard will be re-examined in the light of the commission's recommendations.

Enrolments in Counties in which there is no Multidenominational School.

County	Enrolment 1996-97
Carlow	5,946
Laois	7,155
Longford	4,192
Louth	13,000
Meath	15,869
Offaly	8,705
Westmeath	9,015
Wexford	14,740
Clare	12,100
Kerry	15,781
Waterford	12,652
Leitrim	3,279
Mayo	15,680
Roscommon	6,782
Donegal	18,415
Monaghan	7,208