asked the Minister for Education if any decision has been reached with regard to the provision of a senior cycle school in Ballyfermot, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
47.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ballyfermot (Dublin) Education Facilities.
46.
asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that several hundred children in Ballyfermot, Dublin aged 13 years and over will have no post-primary education facilities available this year; and if he will indicate the progress that has been made in this matter during the past 18 months.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 47 together.
A proposal for the erection of a senior cycle school for 500 pupils in Ballyfermot, Dublin, has been approved. The school will be managed by a sub-committee of the City of Dublin Vocational Education Committee. In relation to accommodation facilities in 1975-76, I am informed that sufficient school places were available for all applicants from the area.
Can the Minister say (1) when we can expect work to commence on this senior cycle school and how long it will take and (2) if he is aware that local representatives are receiving complaints that children leaving school cannot obtain either work or advanced education despite the good work being done by AnCO and the VEC?
Much of the Deputy's supplementary refers to activities which are the responsibility of another Minister. My Department's building unit is at present finalising negotiations with the Dublin Corporation planning office in regard to the purchase of a site for a new school. When that has been cleared we can get on with the work.
May I table another question in regard to this matter after Christmas?
Please do.