Posted by SchoolDays Newshound on 13/12/2012. Tags: Education And Politics
Catholic-run schools could be handed over to other patron bodies from September 2014 in areas where there is parental demand for a greater choice of patron.
Surveys conducted in five pilot areas show parents want to see more options in Arklow, Castlebar, Tramore, Trim and Whitehall.
Multi-denominational group Educate Together has emerged as the first choice of alternative patron in a
new report published by Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn.
Commenting on the findings, Mr Quinn stated: "Parents have been given a voice through this survey process to express a preference for the types of schools they want to send their children to."
He noted that while many are happy with the current schools available, there is a "clear demand" from others for more choice.
Each of the patrons has been asked by the Minister to consult with their local school communities regarding re-configuration options, with an interim response requested in three months and a final response in six months.
Written by Donal Walsh
Comments
Ted Bradley
(13-12-2012 12:17)
Its a pity that schools don't follow a catholic ethos as this would mean that there would be little reason to change their patronage. Regrettably people don't necessarily understand that the word catholic means to be open, tolerant and understanding whereas I perceive it has come to mean the opposite.