Minister Sean Sherlock paid a courtesy call to the Bishop of Cloyne, William Crean, this week and the two are said to have had a wide ranging discussion on a number of topics relevant to the Cloyne diocese.

“We discussed many topics, including the provision of education in the Cloyne diocese, as well as a number of projects currently underway in the Department of Education and Skills,” said Minister Sherlock, who has responsibility within the Department of Education and Skills.

“We also discussed a number of challenges that we are seeking to overcome, including the provision of acquiring certain sites for educational purposes. Given Bishop Crean’s position as patron of a large number of primary schools, this was an opportunity to brief him and offer assistance to work in a collaborative way on future educational needs.”

Minister Sherlock also highlighted the importance of working with the Diocese in his role within the Department of Education.

“Given that Bishop Crean is responsible for most primary schools in Cork East, it is important that the Department works constructively with the Church and I look forward to ensuring that working relationship is achieved and maintained. Overall it was a positive meeting, and I look forward to future engagement,” he concluded.