Written answer
Schools Amalgamation
No amalgamation request has been received; the schools’ patrons may submit proposals, subject to extensive local consultation and consideration of practical implications.
54. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to amalgamate two schools (details supplied) into a co-education school. [67347/26]
Comment on this
My department is not in receipt of a request from the schools in question in relation to a proposal for amalgamation.
I wish to advise that the decision-making authority for any change of status including amalgamation is the patron/trustees of the schools concerned and it is open to any patron to submit proposals to my department for consideration.
Any proposed change involves extensive consultation at local level and must be well planned and managed in a manner that accommodates the interests of students, parents, teachers, local communities and contributes to an inclusive education system.
The patron and relevant stakeholders are also advised to consider the implications that any change of status proposal may have on factors such as school accommodation, funding, staffing and school transport so that an informed decision can be made.