asked the Minister for Education if it is his intention to increase the intake into the colleges of education; if so, the number of extra students that will be taken into (a) St. Patrick's College, (b) Carysfort College, (c) Mary Immaculate College, (d) Froebel College, (e) Church of Ireland College and (f) Marino College; the building programmes that are projected for these colleges; and the estimated timescale in each case.
Written Answers. - College Student Intake.
552.
Intake to the colleges of education is decided in the light of the most up-to-date relevant information which is available on pupil enrolment in primary schools and on the numbers of teachers leaving and re-entering the teaching service. It is not anticipated that an increase in the normal intake to the colleges will be required in the immediate future.
The building requirements of the colleges of education are kept under review by my Department in the context of perceived requirements.
Expenditure to date on major extensions to St. Patrick's, Carysfort and Limerick Colleges which are nearing completion amounts to £3.87 million. Further expenditure of the order of £400,000 will be involved in connection with payment of final accounts and on furnishing and equipping for the extensions.