School Patronage

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 May 2012

Thursday, 24 May 2012

Ceisteanna (63)

Clare Daly

Ceist:

61 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Education and Skills if, in view of the fact that the forthcoming periodic review of Ireland’s record under the UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights will likely maintain its previous position that Ireland is in breach of Article 18, Freedom of Thought, Conscience and Religion, he will precisely timetable its delivery of the commitments contained in its recently published White Paper on the Divestment of Patronage in the Primary Sector. [25723/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Ruairí Quinn)

The Deputy will be aware that I recently published the Report of the Advisory Group to the Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector. The overarching aim of the forum's work was to ensure schools cater for diversity and provide an inclusive and respectful environment for all their pupils. The Advisory Group has presented a comprehensive report. I am aware that some of the issues dealt with in the report are sensitive and need to be carefully examined. I have asked the education partners and interested parties to examine the report and take time to reflect on and digest the recommendations. I am considering the report's findings and recommendations and intend to outline my official response in the coming weeks. As per the commitment in the Programme for Government, a White Paper on Pluralism and Patronage in the primary sector will follow.