Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Apr 1995

Vol. 451 No. 8

Written Answers. - County Meath School Accommodation.

Colm M. Hilliard

Question:

178 Mr. Hilliard asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the lack of accommodation at a secondary school (details supplied) in County Meath where the number of potential first year pupils is seriously curtailed as a result; and if the provision of extra accommodation for the school has been sanctioned. [7597/95]

Noel Dempsey

Question:

184 Mr. Dempsey asked the Minister for Education if she will agree to the immediate provision of extra accommodation for a school (details supplied) in County Meath in view of the serious situation which has arisen. [7710/95]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 178 and 184 together.

A proposed overall schedule of accommodation to meet the long-term requirements of this school is currently under discussion with the board of management. When agreement has been reached, the planning of an extension to provide a residual schedule of accommodation will proceed. The project will then be considered for inclusion in the capital programme in the context of all the relevant building, educational and financial factors when planning has been completed.

I should mention that, where there are a number of post primary schools in a centre, as in this case, my Department's main responsibility is to ensure that between them, these schools can, cater for all pupils seeking places. My Department is satisfied that there are sufficient places available in this centre to cater for all post-primary pupils seeking places for next September, though not necessarily in the school of first choice.

Due consideration will be given to any formal request from the school referred to by the Deputy for the provision of temporary accommodation to meet any short-term requirement. However, my Department has not received any such application to date.