Vol. 549 No. 2
185 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the reasons Gaelscoil Carraig Na Siúire has not yet been fully recognised by his Department; if his attention has been drawn to the implications this has for funding for the school; when full recognition will be granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6266/02]
Newly established schools are generally required to undergo a period of provisional recognition, during which the operation of the school and the growth of pupil numbers are monitored. During that period it is the responsibility of the school patron to provide interim accommodation. This accommodation should be capable of fully meeting the needs of the developing school until permanent recognition has been secured and my Department is in a position to provide permanent accommodation.
Gaelscoil Carraig na Siúire received provisional recognition with effect from September 1998. An application for permanent recognition has been received and is under consideration in the planning section of my Department. As part of the examination, factors such as the future viability of the school, current and projected enrolments and suitability of accommodation will be considered.
A decision on the school's application will be made as soon as possible and the board of management will be notified accordingly.
