Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 September 2014
1340. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the specific guidelines that the school capital appraisal section of her Department applies to amalgamating schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33728/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that the decision making authority for any amalgamation belongs to the Patron of a school, subject to the approval of the Minister for Education and Skills. The initiative for any amalgamation may come from a variety of sources, such as parents, staff, Board of Management and patron(s). The position is that any decisions to amalgamate schools will be voluntary and follow decisions taken at a local level.
Amalgamation proposals must first involve consultation with all of the relevant stakeholders, including students, parents, teachers, and local communities. It must be well planned and managed in a manner that accommodates the interests of all stakeholders and contributes to an inclusive education system. The Patron and relevant stakeholders are advised in advance of arriving at a final decision in the matter to consider the implications that any amalgamation proposal may have on school funding, school staffing and school transport so that an informed decision can be made.
All agreed amalgamation proposals must be submitted to my Department for approval. Proposals that may have major capital implications can only be considered within the context of my Department's capital budget and the challenges facing my Department in meeting national demographic demands.
