Gaelcholáistí Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 May 2016

Thursday, 26 May 2016

Questions (100)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

100. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills when he will establish a second level all-Irish school in north Kildare, given that the west Dublin option is over-subscribed; that there are seven sixth classes each year in north Kildare and that Dunboyne in Meath and Edenderry in Offaly are feeder schools; why it is necessary to again establish a demand for this school option, given that there has been an established pattern of students progressing to all-Irish secondary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12454/16]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

The new schools which will open in 2017 and 2018 to cater for increased demographic demand nationwide were announced in November 2015. At that time it was stated that a Gaelcholáiste to serve the North Kildare area will open in 2019, subject to sufficient viability of the Irish-medium Aonad, which is currently part of Maynooth Community College.

The Gaelcholáiste will operate under the patronage of Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board and An Foras Pátrúnachta. My Department officials will continue to work closely with the Education and Training Board and with An Foras Pátrúnachta in relation to the establishment of this Gaelcholáiste.