asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the fact that there are at present 43 pupils on the roll at Newbristy national school, County Westmeath, which is a two-teacher school, he will ensure that it will be kept open until the average drops below the normal minimum for the retention of a school; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - County Westmeath School.
284.
The pupil numbers in Newbristy school are decreasing and there is suitable accommodation available for the teachers and pupils in the neighbouring Milltown school, where the principal teacher will be retiring on 30th June. In the circumstances the amalgamation of the two schools has again been investigated by my Department and the district inspector of schools has had a meeting recently with the parents of children attending Newbristy school.
My Department are satisfied that the future needs of the area would best be catered for by closing Newbristy school and providing a transport service to convey the pupils to Milltown school, as from 1st July, 1975. The Reverend Manager has been notified accordingly.