Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 97: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her views on a recent report (details supplied) highlighting the rising number of students entering third level colleges from fee paying grind schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33442/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of the article to which the Deputy refers. The schools referred to by the Deputy are not recognised by my Department. Parents are entitled to opt to have their children educated in schools that are not recognised post-primary schools and to have them prepare in that way for the Leaving Certificate Examination and entrance to third level institutions. While I respect the right of parents in that regard my focus is on supporting recognised schools in continuing to provide a high quality of education that enables students to reach their full potential in terms of all aspects of their personal development.