Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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394. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills when his attention was first drawn to the fact that a school (details supplied) was not to take first years for 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20667/17]

Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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395. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to outline the steps set out by his Department when a school is to cease taking in first years and the recommendations set out by his Department for communicating with board members and parents; if he has satisfied himself that all steps regarding a school (details supplied) were adhered to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20668/17]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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I propose to answer Questions Nos. 394 and 395 together.

The Government in its Programme for Government has committed to protect the sustainability and viability of rural communities and will not close any small school without the consent of parents.

My Department became aware in week ending 7^thApril last that, in view of the low pupil enrolment position in the school referred to by the Deputy, the school was proposing not to proceed with the enrolment of new first year students for the coming school year, 2017/18.

In that regard, my Department is aware that the school Board met recently and it was agreed that, following detailed discussion of the viability issues, further consultation would take place involving parents, students, staffing and other relevant interests.

My Department understands that the Board will meet further on the 3^rdMay to consider the outcome of these consultations.