Vol. 512 No. 5
114 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Castleknock community college, Dublin 15, has to date received 306 applications for enrolment in September 2001 and only 210 can be admitted as a result of lack of accommodation; the action, if any, he will take in relation to the remaining 96 pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26500/99]
Intake policy is primarily a matter for individual school authorities, subject to acceptable criteria being applied. My Department's main responsibility in any given area is to ensure that, overall, there is adequate accommodation to meet the demand for pupil places.
Accommodation for 1,100 pupils is being provided by my Department at Castleknock community college It is expected that the overall project will be finalised for September 2000.
In addition to Castleknock community college, there are currently five post primary schools operating in the general Dublin 15 area. I am aware that there is pressure on accommodation in some of these schools, including the community college. This pressure is due, mainly, to extensive housing developments in the area and, in some part, to parents exercising choice in selecting schools for their children.
My Department is at present, closely examining the need for additional accommodation at primary and post primary level in the Dublin 15 area. As part of this examination officials of the planning and building unit will endeavour to ensure that optimum use is being made of existing facilities. This will help to determine the appropriate amount and location for any additional facilities which may be required to meet the needs of the area.
