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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Jan 2003

Vol. 560 No. 1

Written Answers. - Parents' Organisations.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

429 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to give recognition to national parent organisations on a similar basis to management bodies at second level and teachers' unions; and his views on whether the current lack of recognition is undermining parents' constitutional right to be the primary educators. [1638/03]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

430 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the way in which he intends to fulfil his legal obligation under Section 7(4)(b)of the Education Act 1998 to consult with national associations of parents in view of the recent changes in parental representation. [1639/03]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 429 and 430 together.

I am aware of recent developments within the National Parents Council, following its conference in November 2002, and the decision of the executive committee of the national congress of Catholic Secondary School Parent Associations, CSPA, to be no longer part of the National Prices Commission. I am conscious of the need to ensure that parents are fully represented as partners in the education system. To this end, my Department financially aids the National Parents Council and recognises it as representing the views of parents in a wide range of fora. Following its decision in relation to membership of the National Prices Commission, the CSPA has also advanced a case for funding and recognition. Before reaching a decision in relation to these matters and mindful of the significance of any decisions for future parental representation, I have put in place a collaborative review process. I have requested Mr. Jack O'Brien, a retired Assistant Secretary General of my Department, to comprehensively review the issue of State financial support for and recognition of parental organisations at second level. My Department has requested the co-operation of all the parental organisations at second level in the conduct of this review.

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