Gaelscoil Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 April 2015

Wednesday, 22 April 2015

Questions (144)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

144. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if, having regard to the strong representations from local Gaelscoil interest groups in north Kildare, she will re-evaluate the position for the provision of a Gaelcholáiste in the area, having particular regard to the existing strong demand, the growing population and the strong support for the proposal from the various feeder schools; if she sees the merit of the proposal as put forward by the local groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15968/15]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

My Department is currently examining the extent and location of additional post-primary places that will be needed on a nationwide basis from 2017 onwards. This will include an examination of the north Kildare area. A submission received from a Patron body in relation to all-Irish provision in north Kildare will be taken into consideration as part of this examination.

In the meantime, my Department has clearly indicated that it is open to the idea of the establishment of an independent Gaelcholáiste for the north Kildare area. My Department has already committed to consider this if sufficient and viable demand for education through the medium of Irish in an Aonad in a post-primary school in the area is demonstrated over a four-year cycle.

Question No. 145 answered with Question No. 142.