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<p>There are currently 346 free schools open. Since 2010, six free schools have closed
and two closures are planned for summer 2017. The primary objective of the Department
when making a decision to close a school is to ensure the best possible educational
outcomes for pupils and to secure value for money for the taxpayer. The Department
would expect the responsible body to meet any outstanding costs or debts. Where this
is not possible, the Department would consider providing financial support if reasonable
to do so.</p>
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