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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 May 1937

Vol. 66 No. 15

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Condition of Dublin Schools.

asked the Minister for Education whether he is aware that, according to the report of the state of public health in the City of Dublin for the year 1934, the great majority of the schools in Dublin are very old premises, and many of them fall short of present-day standards of lighting, ventilation, sanitation, etc., and that 15 school premises were pronounced unsuitable (requiring demolition and rebuilding), and, if so, if he will state what steps have been or are being taken by his Department to have this state of affairs rectified.

I am aware of the report to which the Deputy refers, and I realise that some of the schools in the central areas of Dublin City fall short of modern standards as regards lighting, ventilation, etc. Since the report was furnished, four of the largest of the 15 schools reported by the school medical officer to be unsuitable have been replaced by new buildings. In two other cases the school accommodation has been improved, and in most of the remaining cases steps are being taken to have new schoolhouses erected. My Department is fully alive to the need for the provision of suitable school accommodation in Dublin City and is endeavouring to expedite as far as possible the provision of such accommodation. During the past two years the grants sanctioned for the building and improvement of schools in the county borough area amounted to £166,400, representing a total estimated expenditure of £250,000 approximately. In view, however, of the transfer of numerous families to the outer suburbs under the corporation and other housing schemes, care must be exercised by my Department to ensure that expenditure will not be incurred in providing school accommodation in the central areas of the city which may not eventually be required.

May I ask the Minister if St. Michael and John's School, Lr. Exchange Street, is included in the list he has under consideration?

I cannot say if St. Michael and John's School is amongst the list, but I will communicate with the Deputy about this and any other school in which he is interested.

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