Education and Training Boards to measure demand for multi-denominational schools and consult with existing school owners such as the Church about the possible transfer of schools to a new model.

The NCCA wants more time to be spent teaching maths, Irish and English as well as a proposed new course called Education about Religion, Beliefs and Ethics instead of religion.

“We wish to assure parents that the Minister’s announcement does not alter the ethos of Catholic schools" - Bishops' Council for Education.

“A faith school has a right to have a faith-based ethos. Parents have a right to send their children to a school with a faith ethos that can permeate the school day”.

Application by Diocese of Cloyne with the Cork Education and Training Board (ETB) as well as Edmund Rice Schools Trust successful.