Vol. 495 No. 6
91 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the adequacy of provisions to support the delivery of primary education in the State by parties other than the State itself and the religious denominations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17674/98]
In pursuance of the provisions of Articles 42 and 44 of the Constitution, the State provides for free primary education for children in national schools. The State discharges its obligation in this regard by recognising and funding privately-owned and publicly-owned schools. Many of these schools are operated by religious orders although, increasingly, schools may be of a multi-denominational nature.
The State also recognises that parents are constitutionally entitled to provide their children's education in their homes or in private schools and I acknowledge a number of private schools have been established for this purpose. However, such private schools are not recognised by the State and, consequently, do not receive funding from the State.
My main responsibility as Minister for Education and Science is to ensure there are sufficient places available to cater for the needs of pupils at primary level. I am satisfied the current provisions for recognition and funding of schools enables me to discharge this responsibility.
