Four new multi-denominational schools to open by September

Four new multi-denominational primary schools are expected to open later this year.

Three schools will operate under the patronage of Educate Together while the fourth- a Gaelscoil - will operate under the patronage of An Foras Pátrúnachta.

It's expected the three Educate Together schools, which will open in September, will be located in Tuam, Co. Galway, New Ross, Co. Wexford and Castlebar, Co. Mayo while, the Gaelscoil will be located in Birr, Co. Offaly.

The Minister for Education Jan O’Sullivan announced the news this morning.

Ina 2012 parents' survey, the Department explored the possibility of "divesting" some schools from Catholic groups "in order to promote more diversity in primary education in Ireland."

95% of schools in Ireland currently belong to the Catholic Church or Church of Ireland. Of the 3,200 primary schools, 2,900 are under catholic patronage.

“This is a fantastic development for Educate Together," said Jarlath Munnelly, Educate Together Regional Development Officer for Ireland West.

"This provides further choice for the parents and goes another step on the road to providing Educate Together schools right across the country”.