Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2013
426. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the exact criteria which will govern the decisions to leave open or close the many hundreds of rural schools throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16690/13]
View answer439. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will give an assurance to the 600 small schools here that their future is secure despite recommendations contained in the report on small schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16853/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 426 and 439 together.
I can assure the Deputies that there is no decision to close small or rural schools. I am aware of the concerns of the small rural schools and I am cognisant of the importance of schools to rural communities.
Our current configuration of small primary schools is being examined by my Department in a value for money review. This review had been commenced by my predecessor in office is part of the normal review processes undertaken by Departments on selected areas of expenditure. Among the issues the review will take into account are questions such as availability of diversity of provision, ethos of schools, parental choice, language of instruction, travel distances, transport costs and the impact of schools on dispersed rural communities. The review is at an advanced stage of preparation. I expect to publish it shortly and I look forward to a constructive engagement on its findings.
