Congratulations and many thanks to everyone who participated in yesterday evenings Show of Support outside Dail Eireann. Your participation is essential in the development and growth of the multi-denominational sector in the Republic of Ireland.

“You are part of a rapidly developing and exciting movement, building a national network of multi-denominational schools committed to equality of access and esteem, irrespective of social, religious or cultural background.  Your help is enabling us to make a major contribution to the values of 21st century Ireland.” Paul Rowe, CEO.

Representatives of the Government and other politicians that met with Educate Together outside Dáil Éireann include Jan O’Sullivan T.D; John GormleyT.D; Senator John Minihan; Joe Higgins T.D; Finian McGrath T.D; Michael D. Higgins T.D.; Enda Kenny T.D; Joan Burton T.D; Tony Gregory T.D; Joe Costello T.D; Bernard Durkan T.D; Olwyn Enright T.D; Jim Glennon T.D; Trevor Sargent T.D; Senator Joe O’Toole; Sean Crowe T.D; Martin Ferris T.D and Aengus O’Snodaigh T.D. Many others had prior commitments due to short notice but expressed their ongoing support to the sector.

Currently there is huge inequality in State support for educational sectors in Ireland. Educate Together is the only secular, transparent and accountable primary school management structure, opening new multi-denominational schools.  In the past 5 years it has opened 21 schools. The organisation receives €41,133 in grants to support this effort. It will be forced to wind down operations regardless of demand to open schools in 30 areas across the country without increased State support.

The budget estimates will be published tomorrow afternoon, Thursday 17 November 2005 at 3pm.  

Educate Together will inform you via the ETEN of any progress. We would like to thank all those who took time out to write to the Minister for Education and Science supporting our case for State funding. The development of the multi-denominational education in Ireland is ongoing and we ask you to remain vigilant on this issue.