Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 October 2012
101. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 11 of 24 May 2012, the progress made to date in establishing a new designation for small isolated rural schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42503/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 11 of 24 May 2012 I indicated that the State will continue to support educational provision for communities in isolated areas. The changes to the staffing schedule of small primary schools are being phased in over a three year period to allow schools to plan for their future, including possible amalgamation options. Ireland has a high proportion of primary schools relative to our population and a relatively high proportion of small primary schools. A value for money review of small primary school provision is at an advanced stage of preparation. Among the issues the review examines is the location of small schools relative to each other and to other schools of a similar type; account is taken of isolation. I expect to publish the review shortly and I look forward to debating its findings with the House.
