Vol. 434 No. 2
64 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the shortage of second level places in the Swords catchment area; and if she will give her plans and timescale for the provision of additional schools for the area.
I am fully aware of the demand for second level places in the Swords catchment area, where there are four post-primary schools. With regard to the long term needs at second level in Swords, my Department is satisfied that the provision of additional schools is not warranted at this stage.
I have recently agreed that planning of a replacement school for Coláiste Choilm, Christian Brothers school may be initiated and I have instructed officials of my Department's Planning and Building Unit to commence this process. Planning of a new school, incorporating existing and new accommodation, at Fingal Community College is also progressing satisfactorily. It would not be possible, however, to give an exact timescale for the completion of these building projects. If additional places are required in the short term, they can be catered for by the provision of temporary accommodation.
The Planning Section of my Department will continue to monitor the situation in Swords in the light of the most up to date statistics for the area.
