Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 September 2021
408. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Education if there is a formal process by which parents of children in a school which is in receipt of public funds can request the school to introduce co-education; if not, her plans to develop such a process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43334/21]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware the decision-making authority for any change of status application is the patron/trustees of the school concerned and it is open to any patron to submit proposals to my Department for consideration in this regards.
Any proposed change involves extensive negotiations at local level and must be well planned and managed in a manner that accommodates the interests of students, parents, teachers, local communities and contributes to an inclusive education system.
The Patron and relevant stakeholders are also advised to consider the implications that any change of status proposal may have on items such as school accommodation, so that an informed decision can be made.
