Call for change to process behind patronage for multi-denominational schools

Delays in deciding who will open four new primary schools have been linked to prospective patrons poorly representing valid interest levels among parents.

The experts who assess applications have called on Education Minister Richard Bruton to change the process because of the problems.

He announced yesterday the patrons selected for the multi-denominational schools in Dublin and Cork. Three of them now have just five months to open but his department said they will all be able to do so.