Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Church of Ireland College of Education, which is based in Rathmines, was established in 1811 and is one of the oldest teacher training colleges in the country, with a proud and distinctive record of training primary school teachers who provide great educational opportunities for children throughout the country.

This matter relates to a report commissioned by the Minister for Education and Skills, which was undertaken by a group of international experts and focuses on teacher training colleges throughout the country. One of the recommendations contained in that report is that St. Patrick's College in Dublin be merged with Dublin City University and the Mater Dei Institute and that a new centre be based at the St. Patrick's College campus in north Dublin. The Church of Ireland College of Education is also involved in the process and is to be amalgamated into a new institute of education in Drumcondra. I understand the Minister supports this recommendation. The report has been sent to the Higher Education Authority, which has been asked to put meat on the bones of the recommendations and report back to the Minister. I am not sure whether the Minister has received that report yet. Following receipt of the report from the HEA, the Minister will bring its recommendations and findings to Cabinet.

The Church of Ireland teacher training college in Rathmines is unique in that it provides for a minority religious ethos in this State. Therefore, the individuals who attend the college are predominantly of Church of Ireland origin.

There would be a constitutional issue if the college were to be merged with another, in this instance a Catholic one, as it would dilute the ethos of a minority religion. That would present a constitutional challenge and be a step too far. All religions should be catered for equally under the Constitution which the Government has a responsibility to uphold on behalf of the people. If any such amalgamation takes place, it will be contrary to what is written and enshrined in the Constitution.

There was an attack on Church of Ireland and Protestant primary schools in last year's budget in that smaller schools were attacked. This had a disproportionate effect on Church of Ireland schools. This represents a further attack. The Minister of State might indicate what is the position.