asked the Minister for Education if in view of the wishes of the parents of Coolnasmear, County Waterford, he will postpone a decision on the closing of the national school there for a period of two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closure of County Waterford School.
21.
Coolnasmear is a two teacher school with an average enrolment of only 37 pupils. One of the two teachers in the school is temporary and unqualified. If these pupils are to get the benefit of the better education which can be provided for them in a large school then the amalgamation with Kilbrien school must proceed. Nothing would be gained by retaining Coolnasmear school for a further two years.
While I agree with the principle of amalgamation where it is essential, does the Parliamentary Secretary not think that a policy of co-operation rather than coercion would, in the long term, be a better policy to pursue in such matters as the closing of a school; and in view of the fact that the parents of Coolnasmear want to give their own school a chance for a couple of years, will the Parliamentary Secretary consider the matter?
Full consultation has taken place and the Department's advisers went to consult with the parents. In view of the desirability of providing an adequate education for the children a decision must be taken at some stage. It has already been deferred and I am quite satisfied such a decision will be in the interests of the pupils.