Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2021
400. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Education if she will reassess the application to expand the first-year intake of a secondary school (detail supplied); the schools adjoining it which have spare capacity; and if she has collected details of the waiting lists of this school and of the schools adjoining and the practicality of local children in this rapid growth area having to leave their area for school. [54053/21]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, a major building project to construct permanent accommodation for the school in question is included in the Department’s school building programme. When constructed, the new school will provide accommodation for 1,000 pupils and will also include a special education needs base. The building project is currently at Stage 3 of the architectural planning process (tender action).
My Department has engaged with the Patron of the school in relation to the first year pupil intake for the 2022/2023 academic year and the school has confirmed that the first year intake for 2022/2023 will be 96 pupils.
My Department is satisfied that this intake, together with the capacity in the existing post primary schools in the school planning area (SPA), will be sufficient to cater for first year pupil demand in the SPA.
