Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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52. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he has given a specific commitment of funding to Cavan and Monaghan ETB to develop a new second-level school and close schools (details supplied); if so, when such a decision in respect of funding was made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10868/19]

Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has not given a specific commitment of funding to Cavan and Monaghan ETB to develop a new second-level school. 

I also 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 my 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 referred to by the Deputies relating to the proposed amalgamation and this is awaited. The matter can be considered further following receipt of this information.