Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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226. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a proposed amalgamation of schools (details supplied) in County Cork; the status of the provision of a new school building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42120/19]

Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that a building project for the schools to which he refers is included in my Department's School Building Programme to be delivered as part of the National Development Plan (NDP).

The decision making authority for any amalgamation is the Patron/Trustees of the schools, and this is subject to the approval of my Department.

Any proposed amalgamation involves 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 update from the Patron of the schools in question relating to the proposed amalgamation. When this is received, the matter can be considered further.