Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 18 Feb 1999

Vol. 500 No. 6

Written Answers. - School Funding.

Noel Ahern

Question:

135 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application from Scoil Phaipin Naofa, Santry, Dublin 9, and St. Thomas Aquinas Academy to be considered jointly for capitation and other funding; the reason for his Department's reservations on the matter; if he will approve the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4724/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

A proposal has been received in my Department for the recognition of these schools as a single tridentine Gaelscoil. The proposal envisages that the school would operate from two locations, one in Santry and the other in Monkstown. I should mention that a school must be recognised by my Department in order to qualify for receipt of capital or current funding.

There are a number of key issues to be addressed when an application for the recognition of a new primary school is being considered. These include the suitability and location of the proposed school building and likely pupil num bers. These aspects have been receiving careful consideration in this case and I expect that my Department will be in contact with the applicants in the matter shortly.