asked the Minister for Education if she intends to recognise "Educate Together" as representatives of multidenominational national schooling; and if she will agree to meet with the group to discuss their programme.
Written Answers. - Multidenominational National Schooling.
271.
I am aware that "Educate Together" is the representative body of multidenominational schools. I have already agreed to a request from this group for a meeting and my office is at present making the arrangements for the meeting.
272.
asked the Minister for Education if she will outline her policy with regard to the appointment of permanent teaching staff to multidenominational schools; the way in which policy compares with permanent appointments in denominational national schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
All appointments to teaching posts in national schools are governed by the general rules for national schools and no distinction is made in this regard as between schools of different religious denominations.
273.
asked the Minister for Education if she will outline her policy with regard to the allocation of capital grants for the development of national schools which provide (a) all Irish and (b) multidenominational education.
Under the regulations of my Department capital grants are generally available towards the cost of building, enlarging or improving vested schools. The amount of the grant is normally two-thirds of the cost. In exceptional cases, however, a larger grant may be allowed.
In the case of all-Irish schools a full cost grant consideration may be given, as a special arrangement, to grant aiding the full cost of purchase of the site and the provision of a new school building.