Physical Education Facilities.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2004

Tuesday, 2 November 2004

Questions (378)

Joan Burton

Question:

451 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans in relation to the lands at Beechpark, Castleknock, currently occupied by a club (details supplied), in view of the understanding by the club that it is to continue in possession of playing pitches at this site to facilitate both the junior members of the club as well as primary schools in the area; if this arrangement will be continued together with the provision of the multidenominational primary school at this site. [26904/04]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The lands at Beechpark Avenue are owned by my Department and were purchased in order to provide educational facilities for the children in the Castleknock area.

The design of the permanent school building has allowed for continued usage by the club in question. However, in order to construct the building, it is possible that some of this land may be required in the short term for a builder's compound.

The permanent school has been designed in a manner that protects sports usage going forward, and my Department remains committed to putting in place a formal long-term agreement concerning the use of the land by the club in question. When the new school is ready for occupation, it will be necessary to put in place a legal agreement with the school authorities and it is intended to execute the legal agreement with the club at that point.