asked the Minister for Finance when work will commence on the new primary school at Ballycasheen, Killarney, County Kerry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kerry School.
8.
Mr. Kenny
Sketch plans for two proposed new schools at Ballycasheen have been prepared and submitted by an architect engaged by the school manager. These are being examined by the Commissioners of Public Works as a matter of urgency but it is yet too early to say when building work is likely to commence.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the concern of parents and teachers in the Killarney area with regard to additional primary school facilities and would he treat this as a matter of extreme urgency?
Mr. Kenny
It is being treated as a matter of extreme urgency now but, up to some time ago, sanction had not been received. Sanction for the grant was not forthcoming. It is forthcoming now and this is being treated as a matter of urgency now.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary confirming that sanction has now been issued for the grant?
Mr. Kenny
I will tell the Deputy exactly what the position is. The delay regarding this school happened at the beginning. The Department of Education advised the commissioners on 6th November, 1970, that a new national school should be provided on the eastern side of Killarney town. The site offered at Ballycasheen was inspected by the commissioners and in March, 1971, the Department were informed that that site was suitable. That was 1970 and 1971. The commissioners did not receive any further communication regarding the school until October, 1974. That is when the delay occurred.
Question No. 9.
Mr. Kenny
I am not blaming any Department. There has been a delay of three years. From 1974 until now everything has been going well.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary now impress on the Department of Education and the commissioners that this is an urgent project?
Mr. Kenny
I have already received the Deputy's communications about that and it has been done.