asked the Minister for Education the present position regarding the erection of a new primary school at Kilbeg, Kells, County Meath; and if it is proposed to erect it in the near future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meath School.
33.
A grant towards the erection of this school was sanctioned on the 11th February last.
Because of the very large volume of building projects at present on hands and notwithstanding the fact that the total provision for national school building has been increased this year it is doubtful if this case can be included in the list of projects which will proceed to building during the current financial year.
Does the Minister remember that earlier this year he promised he would try to have this school included in the list of priorities because of the fact it was promised several years ago and was allegedly held up because of the fact the manager had difficulties in clearing the title for the school? In view of that would he say if he considers it will be started next year if it cannot be started this year?
I said I was hopeful I might be able to put it on. I looked into it and I just could not fit it in.
The Minister is in fact saying that this school will not be built this year or next year. Would he perhaps clarify this now and would he say what is the point of allocating a grant if the money is not going to be paid?
We have a very heavy schedule of building. As I say, I have more money available to me this year for primary school building than ever before but I have got to adhere to a priority situation. I have got to deal with the schools which are worst off first.
I can appreciate that This school was built in 1840 and will not last for ever. Will the Minister say when work on the new school is likely to commence?
I would hope that operations in the case of this school will commence in the next financial year.