Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 5 Mar 1996

Vol. 462 No. 5

Written Answers. - Wicklow College Building Funds.

Helen Keogh

Ceist:

165 Ms Keogh asked the Minister for Education if the funding requested for building proposes by the Dominican College, Wicklow, has been sanctioned; if the inspector of the building unit has communicated with the school; and if she intends to grant the school disadvantaged status. [4836/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

An application for grant-assistance towards the provision of additional accommodation at the Dominican College, Wicklow, has been submitted to my Department. Officials from the planning and building unit are currently examining this application in terms of enrolment, future viability and cost implications. On completion of this evaluation a decision will be conveyed to the school authorities.

A detailed report by the Combat Poverty Agency on current approaches to the identification and support of pupils in disadvantaged areas, is currently being considered in my Department. This report will provide a valuable input into the development of future approaches to the identification and support of pupils suffering educational disadvantage. The needs of this school will be considered in the context of any further expansion of the disadvantaged areas scheme which is undertaken.