The Archbishop of Dublin, Dr Diarmuid Martin, has said there is a crisis in schools in north Dublin where non-Irish born, non-Catholic children are being turned away from Catholic schools.
Speaking on RTÉ Radio's Morning Ireland, Dr Martin said recent criticism of Catholic schools in the area is unfounded and unfair as no other group of schools is providing education for immigrant children.
He said the problem that has emerged in north and west Dublin could not have been foreseen; up to 40% of children attending Catholic schools in these areas are non-Irish, and many non-Catholic.
Archbishop Martin said the problem is one that needs to be addressed with regard to the needs of all and a plan is needed that would respond well to the needs of teachers, parents and children.
He said for historical reasons the Catholic Church is over-present in the management of schools as alternative models are not yet in place.
He added that he would have no problem divesting Catholic schools if local demographics change, provided it was properly planned for and done in consultation with parents and teachers.
Regarding baptismal certificates, Dr Martin said he has seen no strange increase in the number of children being baptised and that the baptismal policy is very rigid; if parents are not Catholic then it is very unlikely that a child will be baptised.
