Vol. 440 No. 3
138 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Education whether she has decided on the management structures for the new second level school in Castleknock, Dublin 15; if so, the process of consultation engaged; the individuals and organisations consulted; the way in which she obtained the views of parents; the factors which influenced her decision; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
139 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Education whether she has considered suggestions made by Deputy Austin Currie in a letter to her dated 21 February 1994 in relation to the proposed new school at Castleknock, Dublin 15; that she sanction temporary accommodation for September 1994; sanction the appointment of a board of management, advertise for principal; allow the school committee to take enrolments for 1994 until structures are in place, as happened in Hartstown in 1992; the plans, if any, she has that semi-permanent accommodation may be available at Hartstown community school which could be used by Castleknock children in September 1994; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I propose taking Questions Nos. 138 and 139 together.
The Deputy will be aware that in August last I decided to engage independent consultants to review the case for a second level school in the Castleknock area of Dublin 15. I have accepted the consultants updated report and recommendation that a new school should be provided in Castleknock. I have also decided, after careful consideration of all the factors involved that the new school in Castleknock will be a community college under the aegis of County Dublin Vocational Education Committee.
In reaching this decision I had regard also to the views of the parents which were communicated to me through meetings and correspondence with the local action committee, public representatives and the Church of Ireland community. The primary concern expressed in these communications was that a non fee-paying school would be provided in Castleknock as soon as possible.
I cannot at this stage give a definite time scale for the provision of a new school building. Unlike the Hartstown situation in 1992 a suitable site for the school in Diswellstown, Castleknock has yet to be acquired. My Department is in discussion with a local land-owner in the matter.
I am examining the feasibility of providing either temporary or semi-permanent accommodation on a site in the area before the completion of the permanent building.
