Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
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307. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the merging of two schools (details supplied) in County Cavan; if the consultation process will be examined with local communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54179/18]

Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that the decision making authority for changes to schools belongs to the Patron/Trustees of the school, and then this is subject to the approval of the Department.

Any proposed change involves extensive negotiations at local level and must be well planned and managed in a manner that accommodates the interests of students, parents, teachers, local communities and contributes to an inclusive education system.

My Department has sought further information from the Patron of the schools concerned relating to the proposed amalgamaton and this is awaited. The matter can be considered further following receipt of this information.