Vol. 447 No. 11
179 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education the reason she has granted recognition to a new Gaelscoil in Ballymun, Dublin 11; if this school adhered to the rules and regulations laid down by her Department in relation to this recognition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1390/95]
180 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education the reason she has sanctioned the closure of Scoil Phaipín Naofa, Santry, Dublin 9; if the school adhered to the rules and regulations laid down by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1391/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 179 and 180 together.
Scoil Phaipín Naofa was established with provisional recognition from my Department in September 1993. Shortly after the beginning of the current school year a serious dispute arose, which culminated in the majority of the pupils in the school being withdrawn by their parents. The Patron also withdrew his patronage of the school. This was followed in October 1994 by an application for a new Gaelscoil in Ballymun to cater for those pupils who had been withdrawn from Scoil Phaipín Naofa. It became clear at this stage that under no circumstances would the pupils in question return to Scoil Phaipín.
Following a detailed consideration of this unique situation, and in the interests of continuity of education for the children involved, temporary recognition was granted to Gaelscoil Bhaile Munna on 16 November 1994. The school commenced with an enrolment of 26 pupils and met the requirements with regard to patronage and the provision of temporary accommodation.
