Abolition of school waiting lists could see legal challenges

The legislation, due to be published by Education Minister Richard Bruton (pictured) later today, will prevent children being put on school waiting lists shortly after their birth.

Instead, all children will be required to apply to enrol in the year before enrolment, meaning there is no way to secure advantage by signing up years in advance.

However, principals at a number of south Dublin secondaries who have spoken to worried parents have said they believe there is a “good chance they can challenge it”.

One said: “Many feel that legally they have a legitimate expectation of getting a place because they’ve been signed-up for years.”

A spokesperson for Mr Bruton said “transitional measures” will be necessary to deal with the abolition of school waiting lists.

Sources told The Irish Times that there could be a phasing-out period of three to four years, which will likely be set out in the legislation.