Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Jan 1996

Vol. 460 No. 3

Written Answers. - Dublin Sites.

Seamus Brennan

Question:

368 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Education if at least two undeveloped educationally zoned locations exist in the Sandyford/Leopardstown area of south Dublin and the use these sites will be put to; the help or support that will be available for Gaelscoil Thaobh na Coille in the efforts they make to provide temporary buildings on one of these sites until full recognition is obtained for the Gaelscoil from her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1401/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

Two sites in the Ballyogan-Leopardstown area of south County Dublin were reserved by the local authority for educational use some years ago following consultation with my Department and the Catholic Diocesan Office. None of these sites is owned by the Department. The provision of a national school in the area was deferred because housing developments were slower than expected and pupil places continued to be available in schools in surrounding areas. The matter is kept under periodic review by my Department and has been the subject of consultation with the diocesan authorities.

Schools operating with provisional recognition, such as Gaelscoil Thaobh na Coille, are not entitled to capital grant-aid from my Department for the purchase of sites or provision of accommodation. It is only when permanent recognition is granted that capital grant-aid can be considered. My Department does, however, refund 75 per cent of costs in respect of rented accommodation.