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New multi-denominational schools to open - Quinn

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn today announced that four primary schools are expected to open this September under the patronage of Educate Together. This development is part of the process of primary school divestment and follows surveys of parents on patronage choice in some 43 towns.

New schools are intended to open in Tramore, Co. Waterford, Trim, Co. Meath, and Malahide, Co. Dublin in September 2014. In Ballina, Co Mayo, Minister Quinn has confirmed that the transfer of a Church of Ireland school (Newtownwhite N.S., Ballysokerry) to Educate Together patronage is also under discussion. This follows the agreement of the Church of Ireland Bishop and local parents to a change of patronage.

In addition, Minister Quinn confirmed that the former Scoil San Seamus school building in Basin Lane, Dublin 8 will be in use from September by an Educate Together school which opened in temporary accommodation last September.

The Minister said:

Discussions are continuing to take place with the main Catholic patrons in these and in a number of other areas to identify and secure permanent accommodation. The engagement with patrons so far has been open and generous. I am sure that with the co-operation of all concerned and with the support of my Department, further progress can be achieved.

Read the full press release here.