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

I wish to reach an accommodation as well. I have met seven different groups from the Protestant denomination. On all occasions I have made it clear that if there are difficulties, I wish to resolve them and to do that in consultation with them. I was very disappointed when we met them two weeks ago. I suggested establishing a working group but they refused point blank to do it. All they wanted was a reversal of something I could not reverse. It would be unconstitutional.

I welcome the fact, however, that Archbishop Neill and Bishop Coulton met the Department's Secretary General and other officials last week. Great progress was made at that meeting. It has now been agreed that they will provide information to the Department outlining where there are difficulties for Protestant schools. When that is done, we will examine and evaluate the information and make a decision on it. At all times since this commenced, I have asked the Protestant community and its schools and bishops to provide information to me that shows clearly where there is real difficulty. I accept there are some difficulties for rural Protestant schools. If that can be outlined clearly, I am prepared to take action.

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