asked the Minister for Education whether he has received a request to sanction the building of Stage 2 of St. Helen's national school, Portmarnock, County Dublin; and, if so, the up-to-date position in relation to this request.
149.
Written Answers. - Portmarnock (County Dublin) New National School.
148.
asked the Minister for Education when he anticipates work will commence on Stage 2 of St. Helen's national school, Portmarnock, County Dublin in view of the potential number of pupils involved; when the new school will be ready for occupation; and the proposals he has for accommodating the additional pupils in the interim.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 148 and 149 together.
I have given permission for the provision of phase II of St. Helen's National School, Portmarnock, to proceed. The scheme as originally planned was to comprise 16 classrooms but it was subsequently decided to provide an additional two classrooms for mildly handicapped children. This extra accommodation has been included in the plans.
The Commissioners of Public Works are examining the plans as a matter of priority and I have impressed on them the very urgent need for the school. As soon as the plans are approved and an estimate of cost is available, a grant for the building will be sanctioned. The needs of the situation as it develops in relation to enrolments will be kept under review.