On 29 November last, I advised the House that my decision not to proceed with the construction of a post-primary school for the Knocklyon area was based on a comprehensive study carried out by Dr. Michael Bannon of the Service Industries Research Centre, based in UCD.
I further indicated that I asked that the position be re-examined in the light of the very latest data available. Dr. Bannon has now reassessed the position, taking account of current enrolment trends, school accommodation, both existing and planned, and housing developments in the general area. He concluded that developments in the interim do not affect his original recommendation that a new post-primary school to serve the Knocklyon area is not required.
Based on this independent advice, I wish to reiterate my earlier decision not to provide such a school and I have asked my officials to report to me on the future use of the Department's site at Scholarstown Road.