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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Jul 1966

Vol. 223 No. 13

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of County Cavan School.

40.

(Cavan) asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that there is grave concern in the Castletara area of County Cavan arising out of the fear that it is proposed to close Castletara school and transfer the children to another school; whether it is in fact proposed to close this school; and, if so, if he will name the school to which it is proposed to transfer the children and if he will meet a deputation from the Castletara Parents' Association or send a senior officer from his Department to meet them.

I am aware that there have been some objections to the proposal to close Castletara national school, County Cavan, and to transfer the children to another school.

In accordance with the procedure of considering each case on its merits, I have had the position in this area already investigated by three members of the inspectorate including an assistant chief inspector. These officers have had discussions with various local parties. It is only in the last few days that I have had an intimation that the parents' association would wish to meet me or a representative of my Department. In all cases where such requests have been made I have been happy to comply with them.

On the general question, I have not the slightest doubt but that larger national schools are the answer to the type and standard of education we must give our children at primary level if they are to compete on equal terms with children from other countries.

As, however, the replacement of Castletara school is not a matter of urgency and as some few years must elapse before arrangements for its amalgamation with another school could be finalised, having regard to the building provision which this would entail, it is proposed to carry out temporary repairs to render it suitable in the meantime.

(Cavan): I am obliged to the Minister. Do I take that to mean that there is no immediate proposal to close the school and that it will be kept open for a few years?

That is correct.

(Cavan): And that in the meantime the parents of the district will be consulted and their views carefully considered?

That is right.

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