John Bruton
Question:393 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of a post primary school in Ratoath, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4185/02]
Written Answers. - Schools Building Projects.
The Deputy will be aware that last year I announced the provision of a new second level school on a greenfield site in Ratoath, County Meath. The school will be a community college under the aegis of County Meath VEC.
A number of steps have since been taken to progress the development of the facility, includ ing the determination of a catchment area and a long-term projected enrolment. It had been proposed initially that provision should be made in the new school for 700 pupils. This figure is currently being reviewed, however, in the light of a proposal from County Meath VEC that provision should also be made for the possible demand for second level schooling through Irish, given the existence of three gaelscoileanna in the general area. A decision in this regard will be made in the near future.
Also, County Meath VEC is currently in the process of identifying potential sites for the new school. When a suitable site is identified, architectural planning will begin.