Dáil debates
Tuesday, 21 January 2014
Ceisteanna - Questions - Priority Questions
Schools Amalgamation
2:55 pm
Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source
First and foremost, the prospect of a section 29 appeal because people are refused access to an existing school will be, among other things, an indication that there are not sufficient places in the area to cope with the demand. This is the reason an additional school was provided for in the first place. However, what no one anticipated was that at the end of the process it would emerge that the new school would be of the same ethos and background as the old school. This has surprised many people because they thought the Department was providing what was part of Government policy - that is, a diversity of choice for parents in that area. The issue is both complex and delicate. I will continue to ensure the Department engages constructively to address all the issues, including those raised by the Deputy and other Members on this matter, in order that a satisfactory outcome is achieved, because of the very good reputation the Maynooth community has for education infrastructure in the area. Moreover, I understand its concerns.
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