Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 699: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if it is proposed to exercise powers granted to him under the Education Act 1998 to introduce regulations to replace rules for national schools and rules for second level; if he has engaged in talks with the relevant parties with a view to forming a basis to such regulations; when it is proposed that regulations will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28947/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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At the beginning of 1965 new rules entitled "Rules for National Schools under the Department of Education" were introduced by the Minister for Education with the concurrence of the Minister for Finance. This version of the Rules for National Schools has subsequently been updated, amended and supplemented by circular letters. The Rules for National Schools, together with Department Circulars constitute administrative measures governing the recognition operation, management and conduct of national schools. While the Rules for National Schools and associated circulars are non statutory they are lawful measures which have been judicially considered and accorded the imprimatur of the Irish Courts on a number of occasions.

The Education Act 1998 provides the Minister with the power to make regulations relating to a range of issues concerning the provision of education by schools. Rather than engage in an exercise to revise the existing rules I favour the incremental use of those regulatory powers where appropriate to replace existing rules and circulars.

I have begun this process through initiating steps to regulate the primary curriculum. A draft Statutory Instrument and Regulatory Impact Screening document was issued in March to the partners in education for consultation. My Department is examining the feedback on this at present and a decision on the next steps will be taken as soon as possible.