asked the Minister for Education whether he is aware that there are 374 applicants for places in the Christian Brothers secondary school at Sexton Street, Limerick, but that only 160 of them can be admitted; and what proposals he has to increase secondary school accommodation in the city of Limerick.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Limerick Secondary School.
16.
I am aware that the school in question is not in a position to accept all of the new entrants who have applied for admission for the coming school year. The scheme of free post-primary education relates to all post-primary schools and either a secondary or a vocational school offering the necessary courses is regarded as a suitable school for the purpose of the scheme. My Department is satisfied that the number of post-primary school places available in Limerick city next September will be adequate to meet the demand for such places.
Apart from the comprehensive school at Dooradoyle which is scheduled to open in September, 1971, and the proposed extension to the Brother Rice Secondary School which is scheduled for construction this year, the Deputy and the House will be aware that my Department has proposed the establishment of a community school in the Janesboro-Galvone area. In addition, a tender has been approved for stage one of a new school building for the Presentation Convent Secondary School, Sexton St. Proposals for the erection of additional classrooms at the Salesian Convent Secondary School, Fernbank, are under examination, and proposals for a new school building to replace the existing building at the Holy Rosary School, Bishop St., are being considered.
Is the Minister aware that accommodation in post-primary schools is a big question, not only in Limerick but in other centres as well? Surely there is a definite obligation on the Minister to ensure that accommodation is provided for all children who require such education? Is the Minister discharging that obligation? A case was mentioned in Dublin recently.
This question refers to Limerick and I am satisfied, having had the situation in Limerick examined, that there will be a sufficient number of post-primary places available in Limerick city next September.