Religious patrons to have 'ultimate say' on ethos of primary school, says minister

Hildegarde Naughton confirmed that there will be no obligation on religious-run schools to switch to a non-religious ethos. Photo: Sam Boal/Collins Photos

Religious patrons will have the "ultimate say" on whether a primary school changes its ethos, according to the education minister, as a landmark survey finds strong demand for more multi-denominational education.

Speaking at the second day of the Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO) conference, Hildegarde Naughton confirmed that there will be no obligation on religious-run schools to switch to a non-religious ethos.