Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 March 2018
137. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide an update in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Louth; and the future viability of the school and deployment of staff. [11145/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra138. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will report on the outcome of a meeting that was scheduled to take place in September 2017 between his Department, school authorities and the patron of a school (details supplied) in County Louth. [11146/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 138 together.
The decision making authority for a school closure rests with the Patron of a school, and this is subject to the agreement of the Department. Any proposal to close a school must involve consultation with all of the relevant stakeholders, parents, teachers, students and local communities and follow decisions taken at local level. The Patron has not informed my Department of any decision in relation to the future viability of the school.
Senior Officials in my Department held a meeting with the school management on 20th September 2017, to discuss the viability of the school. I understand at that meeting the school management indicated they are in favour of the school remaining open.
My Department is in ongoing contact with the single manager and Patron of Scoil Náisiúnta Bhrighde in relation to the issues arising including its future viability.
