Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Apr 1998

Vol. 489 No. 6

Written Answers. - Schools Building Projects.

Liam Lawlor

Question:

723 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will undertake a special study into the future education needs of the Lucan area in County Dublin in view of the fact that each of the second level schools in the area have had recourse to seeking permanent extensions to existing structures because of overcrowding and the fact that the Lucan area has been identified in recent reports as the fastest growing suburb in Europe and a large proportion of new residents are young couples indicating a substantial increase in demand for primary school places. [8871/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

School accommodation needs in the Lucan area of Dublin are the subject of periodic review in the planning section of my Department. In this context, approval has already been given for a number of major school extensions at both primary and second level in the area. These projects are now advancing through architectural planning procedures. In addition, a new primary level multi-denominational school in the area was given recognition by my Department from last September and it is proposed to site a Gaelscoil and an all-Irish second level community college in the locality.

I am satisfied that completion of these projects will significantly alleviate pressure for school places in Lucan, in the short term. In view of the major housing developments in the area, the planning section of my Department will shortly undertake a further review of first and second level school needs.

Liam Lawlor

Question:

724 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on the provision of a permanent school building for Coláiste Cois Life on a site already identified in Lucan, County Dublin; and the proposed provisions to deal with temporary accommodation needs for the school year commencing September 1998. [8872/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

My Department's post-primary building unit, in conjunction with County Dublin vocational education committee, is finalising the acquisition of a site for the provision of permanent accommodation for Coláiste Cois Life at Lucan, County Dublin. The question of the provision of temporary accommodation for Coláiste Cois Life for the school year commencing September 1998 is currently being examined.