The decision to survey parents and guardians in a number of selected areas throughout the country follows the recommendations by the Advisory Group to the Forum on Patronage and Pluralism to Minister Quinn earlier this year on the divesting of patronage, where there is a stable population and a demand for diversity of school types. “Following the advisory group’s recommendations, I welcome the Minister’s decision to begin the process of examining the possibility of transferring some schools to other patron bodies in forty four areas around the country where this is preferred. Initially parents of preschool and primary school children in Trim, Arklow, Castlebar, Tramore and Whitehall will be given the opportunity to share their views on their preferred patronage. The survey will then be rolled out in the remaining thirty nine areas over the next month. The survey process will be overseen by the independent New Schools Establishment group, and detailed results will be published by the Department of Education. Following the results of the survey, the Department will then explore the possibilities of the transfer of patronage of these schools with the existing patrons if a demand for alternative patronage is identified. It is very important that all parents and guardians participate in the survey to have their say. This is indeed a unique opportunity for parents to voice their opinions on their choice of patronage for their schools. I would urge all parents to take part in the survey which is available online on www.education.ie. A paper version of the survey is also available by contacting freephone 1800 303261.”
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