Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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621. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the proposed amalgamation of two schools (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55539/22]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The decision making authority for any amalgamation or change of status is the patron/trustees of the schools, subject to the approval of the Department.

The Department has received correspondence from the patrons of both schools referred to by the Deputy regarding the proposed amalgamation of the two schools and change of status to co-educational. This correspondence described a thorough local consultation process with school communities.

The patrons have also requested capital funding to facilitate the accommodation of the amalgamated school on a single site.

In the interim, the Department is aware of ongoing discussions between the patron bodies and continues to liaise with the patrons in this respect.