The Irish Bishops are encouraging eligible parents to participate in a Department of Education survey on school choice at primary level.

“It is important that all those who wish for a Catholic and sacramental education for their children, and those who wish for a multi-denominational education, to make their wishes known so that proper planning for future educational provision can take place”, said Marie Griffin, chairperson of the Catholic Education Partnership.

In what will be the largest ever national survey of its kind, the parents or guardians of all children from birth to 12 years of age will be asked what the type of primary school they would like their child to attend, whether faith-based or secular.

Parents will also be asked for their preference when it comes to single sex or mixed, and instruction in English or Irish.

A total of 493,000 households will be invited to fill out the online questionnaire, which went live at 12pm yesterday and will run until 16 December.

A separate questionnaire will seek the views of teachers and members of school boards of management.