On previous occasions I have highlighted the urgent necessity of building a new gaelscoil in Newcastlewest. In 1995 we were all delighted when the then Minister for Education, Niamh Bhreathnach, approved this project under the capital spending programme. In the succeeding years the school has lost its priority status because of a lack of commitment and support from the Department. The gaelscoil purchased a 2.5-acre site and the Department should compensate the school forthwith.
The gaelscoil also received permission for the water and sewerage connection which would cost over £21,000. My understanding is that in the past this water and sewerage connection was probably an impediment to the progress of the project. Now, however, I would say the impediment is gone and the Department can act accordingly. The Department should provide finance for this project as a priority. The present gaelscoil operates out of a collection of pre-fabricated buildings at a local community centre. An Bord Pleanála has already threatened the gaelscoil with eviction from some of the pre-fabricated buildings it currently occupies.
The gaelscoil's parents and pupils have suffered enough in unsuitable accommodation. It is worth bearing in mind that the school itself has progressed and now has an enrolment of 216 pupils. It has developed a naíonra for pupils prior to attending primary school and also has a gael coláiste. Given the sincerity and commitment of the teachers in the school, and the appreciation of pupils and parents at local level, it is high time that the Department of Education and Science seriously set about getting a momentum going with regard to this project. That momentum has been lost over recent years. As we face the new year, and departmental Estimates are being prepared, I hope the Government will make sure that Gaelscoil Ó Doghair in Caisleán Nua Thiar, will be top of the Department's priority list. I hope the Minister of State's reply will be positive.
