While the enrolment policy for primary schools is a matter for the board of management of each school, schools will cater for their immediate areas in the first instance. If, after that, places remain available, schools may enrol pupils from outside their areas should there be a demand. Where more than one school caters for an area or parish, it is expected that such schools will liaise to ensure that all pupils can be accommodated.
There are over 3,200 primary schools in the State. Individual schools alert my Department where the question of the provision of additional accommodation arises or alternative arrangements need to be made to accommodate pupils.
My Department liaises with local authorities and school patrons, particularly in large urban areas where major housing developments may lead to the need to provide new schools or extensions to existing schools.
I have announced the setting up of a Commission on School Accommodation Needs, as proposed in the White Paper on Education. This commission, which will commence operation shortly, will provide detailed information on current and projected positions in relation to school provision as part of its remit.