asked the Minister for Education whether he will now state when Knocknabro National School, County Kerry, will be reopened.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - A County Kerry National School.
As the average attendance at this school fell below seven units for each of the calendar years 1949 and 1950, it became necessary under the regulations to withdraw recognition from the school as from 1st January, 1951.
The question of arranging for a transport service to another school for the children concerned has been under consideration and presents certain difficulties. I yesterday received further representations from the manager emphasising the very great difficulties and inconveniences likely to attend any such arrangement. I am having the matter finally reviewed with a view to having an immediate decision conveyed to the manager.
As far back as early February last I made representations in this matter and pointed out the great inconvenience that was being caused to parents and children in this area on account of the school not being reopened. Has the Minister considered the great cost of transport that would be involved if the children were to be conveyed to a neighbouring school and would he ensure that the school be opened in the near future?
It is not possible, without very careful consideration of the general circumstances, to maintain a school where the average attendance is not seven at least. In the case of Knocknabro National School, the average attendance has been below seven for two years. I am giving the fullest possible consideration to the difficulties likely to arise in the case of these children, including the cost of transport. Until these difficulties have been really reviewed and it is perfectly clear that a transport service cannot satisfy the situation, it will be impossible for me to look for authority to reopen the school. However, the difficulties are great and, as I have said, I am having the matter finally reviewed immediately with a view to seeing what can be done in the matter.