Catholic concern over school patronage [IrishTimes]
- Published: 23 June 2011
SCHOOL BOARDS of management could feel set upon if a change of patronage is imposed without full consultation, a leading Catholic Church representative has warned.
Addressing the National Forum on School Patronage and Pluralism in primary schools, Fr Michael Drumm of the Catholic Schools Partnership said there was a great danger local communities would not “buy into” the process if it was forced upon them.
During the hearing, Catholic Church representatives stressed their willingness to work towards a “reimagining” of school patronage . At present , the church controls close to 3,000 of the 3,200 primary schools in the State. They also pointed to the danger of a two-tier primary education system if there was parental choice with no limitation.
Chairman of the forum Prof John Coolahan questioned the bishops closely, asking them repeatedly if they were willing to take a proactive role in the transfer of patronage to other providers.
Full Story: www.irishtimes.com
