asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the grave concern caused to parents in the Slievereagh area, Ballyvourney, County Cork, on account of the proposed closure of Slievereagh national school; and if he will now take steps to ensure that this school remains open.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Schools.
64.
A report is at present awaited from my Department's inspector in the matter. A final decision will not be taken until this report has been received and considered.
65.
asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been directed to the very bad state of repair of Gloshakinleen national school, Newmarket, County Cork; and if so, when is it expected that the necessary reconstruction work will be put in hands.
The Commissioners of Public Works have recommended that this school be replaced by a new building. It is expected that sketch plans for the new school will be completed before the end of this month.
The Minister does not seem to appreciate the urgency of the matter. This is a dilapidated old school, a danger to children and teachers. It is a tragedy to send children there in the winter. Last year I saw a sack stuck in one of the windows to keep out the weather. Pending the erection of a new school, would the Minister consider providing a prefabricated structure?
I presume the Deputy is aware of the difficulties in procuring a site for a new school and of the fairly long history of endeavour to secure a site. If a satisfactory site can be obtained, there need be no undue delay in providing the school, but if it should be necessary to provide a prefabricated structure, this will be considered.