School Disputes.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2004

Tuesday, 29 June 2004

Questions (245)

Seymour Crawford

Question:

243 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps he or his Department staff have taken to solve the ongoing dispute at Drumcrave national school outside Cavan town where parents have withdrawn the majority of the 57 pupils; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that without independent intervention between the parents and management of this school its future could be at risk and permanent damage will be done to the 57 children involved if a resolution is not found; his views on whether this is unacceptable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19613/04]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I am aware of the difficulties arising from the dispute in the school to which the Deputy refers. I am concerned at the impact of the dispute on the education of the pupils in the school and I have asked my Department's inspectorate to monitor the situation. The resolution of the dispute is a matter for the authorities of the school in the first instance. However, I would urge all involved to take all the necessary steps to resolve the dispute as speedily as possible, having due regard to the rights of all concerned.