John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 174: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her views on the funding of Church of Ireland schools; if she will accept the need to review the level of funding being granted to such schools in view of the difficulties being experienced by some of them following the cuts specific to this sector; if she will meet representatives (details supplied) in County Kilkenny to hear a submission which will outline the difficulties and provide a greater understanding of the problems being faced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26927/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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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.