asked the Minister for Education (a) the number of national schools closed in 1987 and 1988 (b) the ownership of those schools and (c) the proportion of State expenditure which is recoverable in the event of the sale of premises by the trustees.
Written Answers. - Closed National Schools.
332.
As to section (a) of the Deputy's question, the precise figures sought by the Deputy are not readily available. The information is being sought and I shall have it transmitted to the Deputy as soon as possible.
As to sections (b) and (c) of the question, the reversionary ownership of the vast majority of national schools lies with the original grantors of the sites, the main exceptions being model schools which are vested in the State; and the proportion of State expenditure recoverable in the event of the sale of premises depends on a variety of factors, not least of which is the residual value of the buildings as distinct from the sites. Where the residual value of the building is significant, it is the practice to agree a suitable sum by way of repayment to the State.