Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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53. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to ensure that the views of local communities in the west County Cavan area will be taken into account in his consideration of a proposal by Cavan and Monaghan ETB to close schools (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to opposition of these communities to the ETB proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2761/19]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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63. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to ensure that second-level school provision in the west County Cavan area will remain as provided for at present through schools (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2760/19]

Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 53 and 63 together.

I wish to advise the Deputy that the decision making authority for any amalgamation belongs to the Patron/Trustees of the school, and 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.