New rule to end school entry discrimination

Schools are set to be banned from discriminating against new entrants based on a lack of family school connections, where they were born, cultural background and — in rare cases — specific health conditions.

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn confirmed the major step during his speech at the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland conference.

And while the move is expected to receive criticism from some quarters, he said it was necessary to ensure children of all backgrounds had equal educational opportunities.