Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)

Given the current trend of an increasing student population and the need to ensure maximum benefit from the financial resources available to me, I have asked the Department to examine the broad issues relating to school recognition at second level. The application from Educate Together to be recognised as a patron body at second level will be looked at in that context. It currently provides multi-denominational education in the primary sector.

The examination will have regard to the objectives of the Education Act 1998, one of which is to promote the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents' choice having regard to the rights of patrons and the effective and efficient use of resources. In recent times, the rapid pace of social and demographic change in Ireland is reflected in a radically altered and more diverse society from which our school communities are drawn. Added to this, it is expected that enrolments at second level will increase significantly in the years ahead.

The introduction of free post-primary education in the late 1960s and the Government's aim of providing universal second level education resulted in the emergence of two additional alternative models of post primary provision, comprehensive schools and community schools, and an adaptation of the existing VEC model, designated community colleges. These were over and above the many voluntary secondary schools in existence.

Between them, these models provide for a range of schools that are denominational, multi-denominational and non-denominational in ethos and characteristic spirit. These schools have served and continue to serve their communities very well.

At present there is no formal procedure in place for assessing applications for new post-primary schools. The commission on school accommodation has recommended a set of criteria for assessing applications for new post primary schools. The commission has outlined a set of procedures to be followed by patrons seeking recognition of a new school and has suggested procedures that should be followed by the Department in assessing such applications. These recommendations are currently under consideration.

The examination of the recognition process for patrons at second level will be finalised as quickly as possible and the Department will be in contact with Educate Together when it has been completed. However, extending the existing range of patron bodies is a significant step and before proceeding further, I am anxious to ensure that the financial and other implications are fully assessed.

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