Vol. 525 No. 5
396 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans he has to develop the primary schools at Newtownmountkennedy and Kilcoole, County Wicklow, in view of the fact that these two areas are set to undergo a large population increase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25871/00]
For the past several years, primary school enrolment in both Kilcoole and Newtownmountkennedy has been in decline. I am satisfied, therefore, that there is sufficient provision in place at primary level to cope with population growth in the short term. However, in view of proposed housing developments, copies of the draft development plans for both areas have been requested from Wicklow County Council.
As soon as details of the extent and pace of housing development and projected population growth in Kilcoole and Newtownmountkennedy are obtained from the county council and examined in my Department, a decision will be made on the need for additional primary school provision in those areas.
397 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation in relation to the proposed primary school buildings at Lacken and Blessington, County Wicklow. [25872/00]
My Department is examining the possibility of providing a stand-alone general purpose room as requested by the management authorities of Lacken national school.
A building project at St. Mary's primary school, Blessington, is at tender stage.
The management authorities of both schools will be kept informed of developments.
