MINISTER SEEKS LOCAL INPUT ON GALWAY SCHOOLS

Date Published: 11-Jun-2011

Minister for Education, Ruairí Quinn hopes to consult local groups to get their views about the future of two-teacher rural schools.

The issue was raised in the Seanad this week by Senator Trevor O’ Clochartaigh, who criticised proposals to close such schools as a cost-saving measure.

A ‘Value for Money’ review of small schools began last October and is due to be completed later this year.

In the Seanad, Trevor O’ Clochartaigh stressed the importance of maintaining two teacher schools, especially in rural and Gaeltacht areas.

Senator O’ Clochartaigh explained that there are nearly 70 small schools being reviewed in Galway.

Minister Ruairí Quinn responded by saying that he would wait to hear the recommendations of the ‘Value for Money’ report before giving a definitive answer on the future of small schools.

However, Minister Quinn added that, even though his constituency is an urban one, he understands the need for small rural schools.

Minister Quinn concluded by saying that he will speak to colleagues across all parties on a plan to get the imput of local interests on the small schools issue.