Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Feb 1998

Vol. 487 No. 7

Written Answers. - Schools Amalgamation.

Paul McGrath

Question:

259 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to an application for capital funds from his Department to enable works to be carried out to facilitate the amalgamation of schools (details supplied) in County Westmeath; when this application was received; the nature of the works involved; if moneys will be included in the 1998 allocation for his Department; and if he will confirm a provisional amalgamation date for these schools. [5306/98]

Willie Penrose

Question:

264 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will give the go-ahead to the agreed amalgamation between schools (details supplied) as the parents, teachers and board of management are eager that it proceeds without further delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5248/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 259 and 264 together.

The schools referred to by the Deputies approached my Department in 1996 with a proposal for a possible amalgamation of the three schools. In February 1997, the schools agreed in principle to amalgamate. The agreement is dependent on a major programme of renovation and improvement works at the schools.

Officials of the building section met school representatives last summer to put the planning of the work in train. This planning work is nearing completion and my Department will be in contact with the schools as soon as possible regarding funding of the project, and a proposed amalgamation date.