Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 424: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the meetings that are being held in respect of funding of Church of Ireland fee paying secondary schools; if she will comment on the outcome with particular reference to a college (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21362/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Officials from my Department have held discussions with a number of representatives from the Church of Ireland, and wider Protestant community, concerning issues relating to their fee-charging schools. These discussions are continuing. My officials are willing to meet with representatives of the college to which the Deputy refers, if requested.

I wish to assure the Deputy that I am committed 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. I am committed to continuing this engagement with members of the Protestant community, as I believe that these issues are best resolved collaboratively.