Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 February 2017
231. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills when a school (details supplied) was transferred to his Department, the reason his Department did not inform parents of the change in ownership; and the valuation which was put on the school and its buildings by his Department. [5648/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, the Trustees of the private schools in question recently made a formal announcement regarding their decision to close these schools.
These were private schools and therefore the decision to close the school and the communications with the school staff, students and parents in respect of the closure of the schools was a matter for the schools' Trustees and not my Department.
The Trustees have at all times indicated their commitment to the school community. To assist in facilitating the transition of students to alternative schools, my Department has provided details of schools in the area to the Trustees.
With regard to the acquisition of the property by my Department, this was finalised in June 2016. Due to commercial sensitivities I am not in a position to disclose the valuation of the property in question.
