asked the Minister for Education by whom and on what criteria a decision is taken to establish a new second-level school in a developing area with rapidly increasing population; and by whom is the choice as to the system of management of the school made.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Second-Level School Establishment.
20.
A decision on the provision of a new school in a developing area is made by the Minister for Education in the light of local circumstances such as the rate and extent of development and the second-level facilities which may already be available to the area.
The system of management depends upon the type of school to be provided and that, in turn, is determined ultimately by the Minister for Education after consideration of the applications and proposals made by the interested parties.
In Dublin and Cork there are advisory councils which advise me on the second-level needs of these areas. The councils are representative of the planning authorities, educational and religious authorities, and the teachers' unions.
In the case of County Meath, is there any existing machinery for consultation with local interests who might be concerned about having a school established and about the system of management for such a school? As the Minister is aware, there are developing areas in the county such as Ashbourne, Dunboyne and Navan.
Representations were received from various areas. As the Deputy is aware, I sanctioned the building of a new 800-pupil school in Navan which can cater for second-level education with the existing secondary schools in Navan.
That was approved before the Minister took office.
It was not. We had a debate on the Adjournment on this when it was proved beyond doubt that it was not.
Is the Minister satisfied that in places outside of Dublin and Cork adequate machinery exists for consultation with local interests as to establishing a school and as to the type and management of the school? Would the Minister consider setting up an advisory committee similar to that which exists in Dublin and Cork in other areas where development is taking place?
The Deputy's suggestion is a good one. We have local community representations and representations from vocational education committees and from people interested in funding other types of schools. The inspectorate also report on such areas because in a situation of an increasing school population if we did not have this forewarning and pre-planning, the whole situation would be chaotic. The Deputy's suggestion is reasonable; it is not necessary for the most part but where it is necessary I agree with the Deputy.
Will the Minister look favourably on the suggestion for the establishment of an advisory committee for second level education in County Meath?
I do not think County Meath is in particular need, but I am having a general look at the situation.
The Minister stated recently that he will advertise for principals for new community schools. Who will appoint them?
This has nothing to do with the question.