Multidenominational Schools

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 February 2013

Tuesday, 5 February 2013

Ceisteanna (309)

Eric J. Byrne

Ceist:

309. Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the 860 members of a group (details supplied), who have established enormous demand for change of school patronage in their area, and have been waiting since January 2010 for a new multi-denominational school to serve Dublin 8; when he expects to know the outcome of these negotiations; and if he will confirm that the group will be able to open their school in September 2013. [5343/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

I am aware of the considerable demand for the provision of multi-denominational primary school places in the area referred to by the Deputy and that this demand has grown over the last number of years. I can confirm to the Deputy that discussions are ongoing between my Department and the authorities of an existing school in this area with a view to making a school building available for an alternative school patron. It is my Department's wish to be able to conclude these discussions in sufficient time to allow the multi-denominational school concerned to commence at the start of the new school year this coming September.