New legislation is being published to make the process of enrolling a child in school fairer.
The Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn has published the legislation which will end the practice waiting lists and of seeking deposits from parents.
It will also make it easier for parents of children with special needs to secure a place.
Under the regulations schools can only take names of prospective pupils 11 months before the start of the school year.
No admission fees can be charged by schools and they can no longer conduct interviews with parents and children ahead of enrolment
Schools will still be able to prioritise places for children whose brother or sister is already a student - but Education Editor with the Irish Independent Katherine Donnelly says the new system is about ensuring equality of access for all:
