Jimmy Deenihan
Question:420 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education if she has any definite plans for the future of Lohar All-Irish School, Waterville, County Kerry.
Written Answers. - Waterville, Kerry, School.
Lohar national school was a two teacher school up to 30 June 1984 when due to the insufficiency of the average enrolment, because some pupils from the area were going to other schools, the assistant teacher became redundant. This teacher secured a Diocesan Panel post from September 1985 which resulted in Lohar becoming a one teacher school. There were 15 pupils enrolled in the school at the time.
In the light of the low enrolment in the school the manager was informed by letter on 8 August 1988 that grants were being withdrawn from the school with effect from 31 August 1988 under Rule 29 (2) of the Rules for National Schools. An appeal was received in the Department regarding the reopening of the school. Some of the parents were not prepared to accept the decision and took it on themselves to keep the school open, employing a teacher at their own expense. Eight pupils attended in the 1988-89 school year. A similar number started in the 1989-90 school year.
The Minister decided to have an inspector from outside the area investigate the case and report back.
I expect to be in a position to give my decision regarding the inspector's report very soon and will keep the local Deputies informed.