Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 10 Oct 2000

Vol. 523 No. 4

Written Answers. - School Placement.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

261 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the arrangements his Department will make for access to second level places for children in the Castleknock area of Dublin in view of the imminent construction of several thousand new homes on the old Phoenix Park racecourse; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that his recent press statement in September 2000 has caused much confusion among parents on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21230/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The difficulties arising in the Dublin 15 area due to the lack of places in certain postprimary schools are being addressed by my Department as a matter of urgency.

The position is quite complex because, while some schools in the area are full to capacity, others are in a position to offer places. My Department is in ongoing communication with all of the schools concerned to determine how the anticipated difficulty in September 2001 can be averted and to secure agreement on a co-operative enrolment process in the area.

The level of housing development in Dublin 15 is such that further educational provision at first and second level will be required. My Department is addressing this issue as a matter of priority in consultation with Fingal County Council.

I am not aware of any direct press statement relating to this matter in September 2000, however if the Deputy wishes to forward further details to my office I will forward a response to the matters of concern as soon as possible.