Vol. 491 No. 3
479 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science his views in relation to the policy on the future development of second level schools in city centre locations, many of whom are losing pupil numbers due to the development of schools in suburban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11911/98]
I will continue to support the retention and development of second level school facilities in inner city locations where such schools have a viable future. In this context, a new second level school is being provided in the north inner city of Dublin.
It is the case, however, that the bulk of new housing development is taking place in suburban areas. This, in turn, has created new centres of demand for second level school accommodation. It is an objective of my Department to ensure that existing schools within a reasonable distance of these areas can make adequate provision for any emerging demand. In keeping with the objective of rational and economic use of resources, new schools will only be provided where no such facility already exists or existing accommodation is deemed insufficient or inaccessible.
The issue raised by Deputy Bruton must be considered within the wider context of urban planning and my Department will continue to monitor developments in that regard. Initiatives such as the master plan produced by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority provide an invaluable focus for the future development, including educational provision, of inner city areas. The level of school accommodation in such areas is likely to be sufficient for the foreseeable future and policy emphasis will continue to be on measures to combat disadvantage. These measures include pre-school education, drugs awareness, literacy programmes and measures to maximise retention at second level.
