Michael D'Arcy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I realise that it is difficult for the Minister address this matter, as the situation is not clear. She stated, "The Department advised the delegation of the co-educational demand". This does not suggest that it gave a direction, but that it is coercing those who met the Minister on behalf of the school management. My question was clear - is the offer conditional? It has not been answered as comprehensively as the Minister is able to answer for her own Department. This is my criticism when the Minister for Education and Skills does not appear. I still need to have my question answered. If the Minister present is able to do so, I will gladly accept it, but I doubt that she can, as it does not relate to her Department. This is the ridiculous nature of these debates. I suggest to the Acting Chairman that when an answer is not forthcoming from a Department, the matter should be sent back for an immediate response. It is unfair to and demeaning for the Chamber. Is the term "The Department advised the delegation" a conditional response from the Department to the management, which met the Minister? I would appreciate an answer.