Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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127. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the role his Department plays in schools amalgamation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9090/14]

Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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133. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to recent proposals by religious patrons to close a number of primary schools across the State and the consequences this will have for children and communities. [9165/14]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 and 133 together.

I am aware that some Patrons have initiated consultation processes relating to amalgamation proposals that may involve primary school closures. I wish to advise the Deputies that the decision making authority for any school amalgamation belongs to the school's patron and this is subject to the approval of the Minister for Education and Skills.

The initiative for any amalgamation may come from a variety of sources, such as parents, staff, Board of Management and patron(s). Any such proposal to amalgamate schools must first involve consultation with all of the relevant stakeholders and follow decisions taken at local level. In that regard, any proposed changes must be planned and managed in a manner that accommodates the interests of students, parents, teachers, local communities and contributes to an inclusive education system.

The Patron and relevant stakeholders are also advised by the Department to consider the implications that any amalgamation proposal may have on school funding, school staffing and school transport so that an informed decision can be made.