Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The surveys were conducted in 43 areas across the country. We have taken the responses to those surveys and are acting accordingly. There is a process underway with the existing patrons to consider the options. There is a timeframe for responses.

The small schools issue has not been decided yet so the link with this issue is incongruous. The accusation of hypocrisy, therefore, does not stand. This goes back to the set-pieces where questions are put to the Minister and the Deputy is entitled to make whatever political charges he wants. That is part and parcel of the game of politics. I do not see the link between the two, to be honest.

Surveys were conducted in 43 areas and we should wait and see what the results were and what response the existing patrons will make.

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