Scoil Phapain Naofa was established with provisional recognition from my Department in September 1993. In line with standard practice, the period of provisional recognition was provided so that the school could clearly demonstrate its development potential over a number of years.
A thorough review of Scoil Phapain Naofa's enrolment pattern and development potential has been completed by my Department and the position is that, in its fourth year of operation, the school's total enrolment is only in the region of 20 pupils. In the circumstances, my Department concluded that Scoil Phapain has not developed into a viable school and that it is unlikely to do so in the future. I have decided, in the circumstances, to withdraw recognition and grants from the school with effect from the end of the current school year. The school will continue to receive grant-aid from my Department up to that point.
The review referred to above also concluded that three gaelscoileanna in the Ballymun-Santry area not required and, accordingly, I do not intend to reverse my decision in relation to Scoil Phapain.
My Department is prepared to assist in making alternative educational arrangements for the pupils in the school. The teacher has been advised also of the panel options open to her, with a view to obtaining a post in another school.
The details of national schools from which grants were withdrawn in the last five years are contained in the attached list which I propose to circulate in the Official Report.
National Schools which Closed in the Period 1992-96.
