Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 June 2022
391. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education her position in relation to secondary schools that are refusing admission to Ukrainian refugee children who are seeking school places for the forthcoming 2022 to 2023 academic year; if there is a process in place to allow these children to have their voices heard and to appeal decisions of the school that is refusing them admission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31720/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll schools must implement their enrolment policy in accordance with the Education (Admission to Schools) Act 2018. Parents have the right to choose which school to apply to and where the school has places available the pupil should be admitted. However, in schools where there are more applicants than places available, a selection process will be necessary. This selection process and the enrolment policy on which it is based must be non-discriminatory and must be applied fairly in respect of all applicants.
The parent of the student or, in the case of a student who has reached the age of 18 years, the student may appeal a decision of this school to refuse admission. An appeal may be made under Section 29 (1)(c)(i) of the Education Act 1998 where the refusal to admit was due to the school being oversubscribed.
The Department has established Regional Education and Language Teams (REALT) to work with Ukrainian families and local schools to address any issues with school capacity. Current data available shows that overall there is significant capacity available at both primary and post-primary level. The Department know that some schools in certain areas are oversubscribed. The REALTs are helping to manage this; they will identify schools with capacity, assist with accessing transport, and provide feedback to the Department on progress and challenges. Where a parent is experiencing difficulty finding a school place for their child, they should make contact with their local REALT.
