I thank the Chair for allowing me to raise this matter. My question relates to the up-to-date position regarding the provision of additional accommodation and facilities at two vocational education committee schools, Inver College, Carrickmacross and Ard Scoil Lorgan, Castleblaney. The Minister gave an allocation to the three second level schools in the county which was greatly appreciated. However, it created extra pressure on the other two schools.
There are approximately 350 pupils in Castleblaney and 500 pupils in Carrickmacross. Representations have been made since the early 1980s for major extensions to both schools. Substantial expenditure had been incurred and the planning process was well advanced. It now appears that they have to begin the planning process again. From information ascertained through parliamentary questions and debate it seems that there is a lower expenditure per capita in Monaghan than in other counties.
Prefabricated buildings have been provided. In Carrickmacross there are 14 prefabs. In general, such buildings have a short lifespan and are unsuitable. Policy in the Department should lean more towards permanent structures. There is an increased demand for vocational education and rightly so.
In Castleblayney discussion centred on whether to develop the school further because it is sited on the edge of a national primary route or to build on a new site. The junior metal room is urgently in need of replacement. In the 1989-93 National Development Plan the North-Western sub-committee recommended that a second third level institution related to training needs be provided in the Cavan-Monaghan area. I hope this will become a reality. There is a great tradition in furniture manufacturing, textiles, footwear and in the food industry and scope for the vocational school to conduct classes in those areas.
The County Monaghan Vocational Education Committee has been extremely successful in availing of money under different headings, for example, the IFI. There is a very good administrative and teaching structure with an active chief executive officer who is noted for his initiative and enterprise. With very little funding he and his committee developed an outdoor educational centre. It has proved a great facility for both primary and secondary schools and is heavily booked for day and residential accommodation until next August. There are many bookings from Northern Ireland. They have a running track at Beach Hill which is nearing completion but an additional £40,000 is required to complete it. The entire project cost £160,000. They established a business study group and adult education in a vacant health board premises. They are innovative and enterprising.
The Minister should facilitate the committee by allowing the two projects to commence. I know she may not think it a great way of thanking her for the substantial funding we have received to ask for more now, but I urge her to ensure that the two schools get the additional facilities they urgently require.
