Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Department adopts a flexible approach and seeks to facilitate amalgamations wherever it can. However, where capital funding is concerned, the merits of each case have to be assessed. If the Deputy has a particular instance in mind, I can ask the Department to assess the needs in that case. Clearly, this is an area in which the Department seeks to facilitate the wishes of patrons, pupils and parents.

A voluntary amalgamation protocol has been worked out with the Catholic Primary Schools Management Association, CPSMA, in order to anticipate obstacles that might arise in these circumstances. That protocol is being adopted and will be in place for the coming school year.

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