Written answers

Tuesday, 19 January 2010

Department of Education and Science

Grant Payments

9:00 pm

Photo of Joe CareyJoe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 1052: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding his decisions made during 2009 in relation to Protestant fee paying schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1113/10]

Photo of Batt O'KeeffeBatt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I have repeatedly stated my, and the Government's, commitment to supporting Protestant education while at the same time ensuring that funding arrangements for schools under Protestant management are in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.

Indeed, it is in order to deal with the concerns expressed by some members of the Protestant community of the effect of changes to certain funding arrangements on Protestant second-level schools that I have sought to ensure the direct engagement with those involved in Protestant education in identifying and resolving issues collaboratively.

I have had meetings with a number of groups on this issue. On 21 October, I met with the Committee on Management for Protestant Schools. I extended an invitation to that committee to join a working group with my officials to identify particular measures to support the schools and consider options that might deal with their needs. Regrettably, the committee declined my invitation. While that is the case, discussions have taken place between senior Department officials and representatives of the Church of Ireland Bishops. Discussions were held as recently as 13 January, and it is planned that those discussions will continue for the purpose of identifying a range of measures to address the needs of the schools.

I earnestly believe that it is through engagement between representatives from the Protestant education sector and my officials that solutions tailored to meet the concerns can be identified.

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