Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 2 Jul 1996

Vol. 467 No. 7

Written Answers. - Aranmore (Donegal) School.

Mary Coughlan

Ceist:

221 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Education whether a permanent teacher will be appointed to Aphort national school, Aranmore, County Donegal, to replace the teacher who has recently resigned; whether a decision has been made to provide funding to repair this national school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14288/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I understand that the possibility of Aphort national school amalgamating with Aranmore national school with effect from 1 September 1996 has receded. However, I also understand that the matter may be re-considered at a later date. In these circumstances, I consider that it would be prudent to appoint a temporary teacher to Aphort national school for the 1996-97 school year.

Due to the current level of contractual commitments on the primary school capital programme, my Department is not in a position to provide grant assistance towards refurbishment at Aphort national school immediately. However, a new grant scheme is being introduced in January 1997 to cater for such works. It is open to the school management to utilise these funds towards improvement works at the school. This option has been conveyed to the school management.