Vol. 520 No. 5
181 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide a detailed progress report in relation to the provision of an extension to Ratoath national school; if he will treat this project with urgency in view of the fact the population in the area is growing at a very fast rate and the demand for places at the school is great; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16245/00]
The issue of the future accommodation needs of Ratoath national school is under active consideration in my Department. It has been established that additional accommodation will be required at the school to cater for increasing enrolments due to housing developments in the area. The extent of accommodation required is being determined at present.
Officials of the planning and building unit met with the school authorities in March to discuss the school's accommodation needs. Arising from this meeting, additional information regarding housing and population trends in the area was provided to my Department.
The examination of all the relevant information is being finalised and it is expected that a decision will be taken shortly on the extent of additional permanent accommodation required. Pending the provision of permanent accommodation, my Department is grant-aiding the rental of temporary accommodation to cater for the short-term needs of the school.
