Pupils could be denied a place at Catholic secondary schools unless they can prove they were baptised, under plans being considered by a Scottish local authority.

EDUCATION Minister Mary Hanafin last night warned she would introduce regulations, if she had to, to make all schools take their fair share of children with special needs and learning difficulties.

The number of Catholic secondary schools in Ireland has dropped by around 20% in the past 15 years and is expected to fall further over the coming years.