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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 13 Feb 1992

Vol. 415 No. 7

Written Answers. - Maynooth (Kildare) School Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

55 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education whether optimum health, fire and safety at work regulations are attainable at Maynooth post-primary school, County Kildare given that 640 students are now sharing accommodation provided for 550; if he accepts the desirability of the implementation of remedial action to bring the accommodation into line with the school's present enrolment; if he intends proceeding with such works in the current year; if so, the date by which he expects the extra accommodation to be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

56 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been drawn to the overcrowding at Maynooth post-primary school, County Kildare which is caused by inadequate classroom accommodation; if he accepts the need to put in place specific measures to alleviate the problem; if he will outline the means whereby he intends to resolve the accommodation situation in the current year; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I propose taking Questions Nos. 55 and 56 together.

Maynooth post primary school has accommodation for 625 pupils and the current enrolment is 641.
In May 1990 County Kildare Vocational Education Committee lodged an application with my Department for the provision of an extension to the school to cater for up to 700 pupils.
This application has been reviewed and it is considered that, having regard to demographic trends and current and projected enrolments at primary and post primary level in the Maynooth area, the provision of such an extension is not warranted.
My Department would be prepared to give careful consideration to any application for the provision of temporary accommodation at Maynooth post primary school to cater for short term needs if required.
In the current difficult financial climate, however, it would not be possible for me or my Department to guarantee that any such provision could be made in the current year.
I would also add that the health, fire and safety aspect of Maynooth post primary school building is a matter for County Kildare Vocational Education Committee in the first instance.
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