Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 39: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if Kerry Education Service will remain a stand alone entity and that it will not be amalgamated with Limerick City and County Vocational Educational Committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12167/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The previous government decided to reduce the number of VECs from 33 to 16 and on the merger of particular counties. I am anxious to ensure that progress continues to be made in the work on bringing about a reduction in the number of VECs.

The IVEA has recently responded to my invitation to them to submit alternative rationalisation proposals, following their expression of concerns regarding the configuration of the proposed new entities.

I will consider the IVEA's response and decide on the particular mergers in the coming period having regard to the potential for savings and to ensuring that the new structures will be fit for purpose.