David Stanton
Question:377 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the Government's policy regarding stand-alone Gaelscoileanna; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17828/97]
Written Answers. - Policy on Gaelscoileanna.
It is the policy of Government and my Department to support the establishment of gaelscoileanna in areas outside the Gaeltacht regions where a demand for such a school is demonstrated and where there exists no alternative within a reasonable distance. Allied to the question of need is an assessment of the viability of the proposed school into the future.
Practical support for gaelscoileanna is demonstrated through the payment of increased capitation grants for pupils in these schools, allowing a more favourable pupil teacher ratio compared with ordinary schools, and paying allowances to teachers who teach through Irish. Furthermore, my Department provides increased refund of rental of accommodation costs and grants 100 per cent of the cost of site acquisition and the provision of new buildings or extensions/renovations to existing buildings for gaelscoileanna.
I should also mention that the Commission on School Accommodation Needs is at present examining the most appropriate criteria for the recognition and resourcing of national schools, including all-Irish schools. As part of its remit, the commission is carrying out a review of existing policies, structures and funding for this area in the course of preparing recommendations for submission to me. I expect to have these recommendations later this year.
Policy in relation to gaelscoileanna will be reviewed in the light of the commission's recommendations.