School Management

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 September 2010

Thursday, 30 September 2010

Questions (96, 97)

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

92 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she is concerned that a board of management is not yet in place for a school (details supplied); the procedures to be followed in appointing a board of management in this case; if she is satisfied that the delay in appointing a board of management will not impact negatively on the development of the school; if she anticipates that a principal will have taken up position by the 1 January 2011; if the school will realise its schedule opening date for September 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34227/10]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

In accordance with the Education Act 1998, it is a function of the patron of a school to appoint the Board of Management. In the case of community schools, it is a matter for the joint patrons to appoint the Board of Management in accordance with the provisions of the Deed of Trust for Community schools.

Pending the opening of the new school and until such time as it is possible to appoint a full Board in accordance with the provisions of the Deed of Trust, the joint patrons may appoint an interim Board of Management.

When appointed, the Board of Management should liaise with my Department in relation to approval for the advance appointment of a Principal.

The school is one of six schools included in the second bundle of schools to be delivered via Public Private Partnership. Construction commenced on the school in June 2010 and it is anticipated that the school will be operational in late 2011.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

93 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will issue a directive to the boards of management of schools, that in the provision of schools uniforms there will be plain colour only and if she will ensure that there will be competition in outlets providing school uniforms in view of the fact that there appears to be a monopoly at the moment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34246/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

In accordance with the provisions of the Education Act 1998, the Board of Management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school.

Individual school authorities are responsible for the drawing up of a school policy in relation to the wearing of school uniforms.

However, my Department recommends that the formulation of such a school policy should allow for prior consultation with teachers, parents and pupils where appropriate and enable any concerns about the issue of cost to be raised and considered. Decisions regarding school uniforms are a matter for the Board of Management of each individual school.