asked the Minister for Education if he will make a statement on the future of the Jesus and Mary Secondary School, Salerno, Salthill, Galway.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Salthill School.
82.
Mr. R. Burke
An application for a building grant was received from the authorities of this school in 1970 but the application was refused on the grounds that (a) there were already sufficient places for girls in secondary schools in Galway city and (b) a survey of the needs of the city in the matter of second-level education accommodation was being undertaken by the Department. Further representations received from the school authorities and the secretary of the school's parents' committee are at present receiving consideration. Pending the completion of such consideration I am not in a position to make a statement in the matter.
Does the Minister know that the parents and the authorities of the school will be very disappointed with the reply he has given? Is he aware that the situation in the school is now quite serious, that the condition of the existing building is actually dangerous and that the prefabs which the Department have supplied are not conductive to giving a good education to the children. We understood they were intended to be a temporary measure. Are the Department considering whether to allow a new school to be built on the present site? Will the Department allow a school to be built on the present site or on a new site? Are they considering a co-educational school in Coláiste Éanna close by? I understood from the Department that these matters are under consideration and that the parents are waiting for the decision to be made. The Minister's answer does not refer to these questions.
Mr. R. Burke
It refers to the fact that these matters are under consideration. The matters referred to by the Deputy and other questions are under consideration but I am not in a position to make a statement at this time.
We know all these matters are under consideration. Will the Minister come to a decision on them and give us an answer? Will he even promise that he will make a decision? Promises were made before but they were not kept.
Mr. R. Burke
Since the Deputy does not like me making promises I hesitate to make one now. I will give the matter consideration and when my consideration is complete I will make a decision.