Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

No, I have not had any consultations with the churches but I expect to do so and I look forward to that series of consultations on a whole range of issues, including in respect of schools. When the Minister, Deputy Quinn, made his comments, he made it perfectly clear that while it might be fine to be ambitious, these issues depend on a serious dialogue between the parents, the boards of management and the patrons. The forum on patronage and pluralism in the primary sector has been established. That forum, announced by the Minister for Education and Skills, will undertake its work in respect of the conditions served.

This is a matter the House should discuss in due course. It is important that people's views be expressed. However, the forum is getting on with its work for now. After I meet and have a series of consultations with the Catholic Church I will be happy to come back to the House and discuss the matter further.

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