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School Accommodation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021

Tuesday, 27 July 2021

Questions (935)

Bríd Smith

Question:

935. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Education her views on whether forward planning is needed for Dublin 12 given that there will be an increase of over 6,000 new residents in the area in next two years; if she has spoken to her Department regarding a new school for the area which will include autism classes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39194/21]

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Written answers

In order to plan for school provision and analyse the relevant demographic data, my Department divides the country into 314 school planning areas and uses a Geographical Information System, utilising data from a range of sources including information on planned and current residential development, to identify where the pressure for school places across the country will arise. Dublin 12 is situated in the Dolphins Barn_Dublin12 school planning area. As the Deputy is aware, major new residential developments in a school planning area have the potential to alter demand in that area. In that regard, as part of the demographic exercises, my Department engages with each local authority to obtain the up-to-date data on residential development activity. Where data indicates that additional provision is required at primary or post primary level, the delivery of such additional provision is dependent on the particular circumstances of each case and may be provided through either one, or a combination of, the following:- Utilising existing unused capacity within a school or schools,- Extending the capacity of a school or schools,- Provision of a new school or schools.

My Department's most recent projections do not indicate significant increases in school place requirements at either primary or post primary level in the Dolphin's Barn_D12 school planning area. Planned residential development is included in these projections. Nevertheless, my Department will continue to work to ensure that there is sufficient capacity in the area to meet school place demand and will keep the requirements in Dublin 12, as with all other school planning areas, under review.In respect of provision for pupils with special educational needs, my Department has approved the following 2 projects were for ASD provision in Dublin 12 in 2021 under the Additional Schools Accommodation (ASA) scheme: St. Damian’s NS, Perrystown, Dublin 12 – a one class Special Education Needs roomOur Lady of the Wayside NS, Bluebell, Dublin 12 – three class Special Education Needs rooms.In addition, a new special school will be established for the 2021/2022 school year in the former Scoil Colm, Crumlin. The school will operate under the patronage of the Archbishop of Dublin and will be known as Our Lady of Hope School. Reconfiguration works are currently being undertaken in the building to facilitate the school’s establishment. The school will offer places to students with autism and general learning disabilities with priority given to children with no offer of a placement for September next. Requirements for special education provision will continue to be kept under review.

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