Vol. 399 No. 8
48 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education if she will clarify the role of patron in the rural educational system; if she is concerned at the arbitrary use of this role; and if she proposes to change the situation through legislation.
The role of patron in the primary education system is provided for in the Rules for National Schools and in the publication Boards of Management of National Schools, Constitution and Rules of Procedure.
The person or body of persons who applies to have a school recognised and grant-aided by my Department as a national school is recognised.
The government of a national school is vested in the patron. The patron may manage the school personally or may nominate a suitable person or body to act as manager. Subject to the approval of the Minister for Education the patron may at any time resume the direct management of the school or may nominate another manager. The patron nominates the trustees of the schools.
The Primary Education Review Body are currently examining all issues related to the structures and operation of primary education and I do not intend to pre-empt the findings of that body by making a statement at this stage on any such issue.
