asked the Minister for Education why it was decided to withdraw in May 1969 written permission for the extension of the Loreto secondary school in Navan, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meath School.
35.
The question of the reorganisation of secondary education facilities for girls in An Uaimh is under consideration by my Department in consultation with the school authorities concerned. No decision in the matter has yet been reached. Immediate needs are being met by the provision of prefabricated classrooms.
I am sorry but it appears as if somebody got mixed up when the question was being printed because the question is not printed as I put it in. In fact, in 1969, the instructions to proceed with the school were given. Recently a decision was taken to withdraw those instructions. Is the Minister aware that his Department have notified the relevant school authorities that they are not to proceed any further? In fact they have been informed that provision is being made for the children who should be going to this school at another school nearly a mile away from where the relevant school is to be built? Is that not on his file?
My information is that a meeting took place between the two convents on the 20th January, 1971, to discuss certain proposals. There was no immediate agreement forthcoming on the Department's proposals. Both sides agreed that they would consider the proposals but so far nothing appears to have happened. In order to meet the Loreto's immediate accommodation needs two mobile pre-fabs were provided early in 1971. As I say, no decision on this matter has yet been made.
In view of the fact that the school authorities there were instructed to proceed with a school and that this has since been categorically changed by the Minister's Department in writing would he say if another change of heart has taken place and if, in fact, there is some hope that this school, for which there has been so much planning in the town, is now to proceed?
Of course the Deputy is aware we must try to rationalise the whole educational system in many of our towns. It is because of this that the discussions have taken place. As I say, until I know what ultimately comes out from these discussions I cannot take a decision on this. We want to get as much co-operation as possible and to rationalise the whole educational situation. Until I have got information in relation to what the two convents will agree on I cannot give a decision.
Has any arrangement been made to discuss the matter?
Not very much. there was a meeting in January.
What has happened since?
Well, not very much.
Nothing. Could the Minister arrange for another meeting?
I will look into that.