Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I cannot be any clearer. From the outset, we have been very clear that the purpose of the pilots is, obviously, that they would be successful in that they would glean for us an increase in multidenominational provision. Equally, however, we have been clear from the outset that there will be learnings from the pilots. A pilot is a pilot. There will be learnings and, obviously, we will put that to good use going forward. However, it is fair to say that the example the Deputy has given, and it was given here earlier this morning, has been particularly complex and particularly challenging. That has not been the experience in other instances. While that does not in any way diminish the challenges that have been presented in this area, notwithstanding that, it is only balanced to say that in other areas those difficulties were not found. Equally, in terms of multidenominational provision, particularly with new schools, it is important to remember that 52 of the 53 new primary schools are multidenominational and 44 of the 50 new post-primary schools are multidenominational. To conclude, there will be a full review of the process on the conclusion of the pilot scheme.

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