Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

In the briefings I have received on discussions with the previous Minister, although the archbishop was anxious to make progress, with the reality of changes in dioceses and supports in the Catholic church and numbers, the church will not be in a position to continue. In those briefings, the archbishop spoke about divesting and we are anxious to pursue that, we are working on methods to achieve it.

I am aware of what is happening in Deputy Quinn's constituency but in some areas divestiture can take place so others are afforded the opportunity, through consultation with parents, to establish patronage of schools. It is my view that should happen.

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