Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 March 2015
121. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the lack of a sports field at a school (details supplied) in County Meath; her plans to address this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10625/15]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has already provided significant physical education (PE) facilities at the newly constructed primary and post-primary schools at the educational campus of the school referred to in County Meath.
Two general purpose rooms, three external ball courts and two junior play areas were provided at the new primary school. In addition, a PE hall and six external hard play areas were provided at the post-primary school. Similar facilities will also be provided at the remaining primary school due to be constructed in the area.
The Department understands that the former VEC has also previously developed a one acre pitch on the campus.
In the circumstances, and taking into account the competing demands on my Department's capital budget imposed by the need to prioritise the funding available for the provision of essential classroom accommodation, it is not possible to provide an indicative timeframe for the provision of further sports facilities at the school in question at this time.
