Fine Gael TD Heather Humphreys has welcomed assurances made by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny regarding the future of small rural primary schools.

There had been speculation in recent weeks that the government may implement a policy of closing primary schools with less than 50 pupils as part of new cost saving measures.

Deputy Humphreys said “I welcome commitments made by An Taoiseach at the Fine Gael parliamentary party meeting that the government will not be pursuing such a policy.  Cavan-Monaghan is a prime example of a region where small primary schools have a massive role to play in teaching children about their local culture and community.”

“The Small Primary Schools Value for Money Review was set up by the previous Fianna Fail/Green administration. However, Enda Kenny has informed the party that he has spoken with the Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn, who confirmed there is no government policy aimed at shutting down small, rural schools.”

Deputy Humphreys continued by saying “As a TD for Cavan/Monaghan, where there would be several rural communities affected by such a measure, this statement will come as a great relief to pupils, parents and teachers. It is my belief that the primary school is at the heart of any rural community and it should be protected as such.”