Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

88. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his proposals for continued divestment given the commitment in the programme for Government for new approaches to speed up divestment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11055/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Government is committed to progressing the development of a dynamic and innovative education system that reflects the diversity of 21st century Ireland. The Programme for a Partnership Government reflects the Government's objective of strengthening parental choice and further expanding diversity in our school system, specifically by increasing the number of non-denominational and multi-denominational schools with a view to reaching 400 by 2030.

In addition to the phased transfer of Catholic schools to new patrons, which is already under way, this will require considering new ideas and new approaches to substantially accelerate the changes in school provision in order to achieve greater diversity. The Government is committed to working with all stakeholders to facilitate this process and I will be progressing these matters as a priority.