Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I indicated last time that I agree with the Senators that there should be as much transparency as possible and better communication between schools and parents. I generally support this principle but I do not think this amendment is appropriate. As Senator Reilly noted, we are working on the education (admission to schools) Bill and are close to publication. We are engaging with parliamentary draftsmen and the Office of the Attorney General to finalise proposals on the Bill and, among other things, it will prohibit the charging of any fees or contributions as part of a school's admissions process. Schools will not be allowed to charge a fee for applications, in other words. I agree that greater transparency is required and it was noted that we will publish a parent and student charter.

I agree with the principle of what the Senators seek but I do not think this Bill is the appropriate place to address it as we are close to publishing a final draft of an education (admission to schools) Bill.