Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 28 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 6

Written Answers. - School Placement.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

397 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has satisfied himself with the number of places available for secondary education requirements for children in catchment areas of secondary schools in County Kildare (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27430/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

At post-primary level in Naas, the position is that, following an evaluation of post-primary school requirements in the area, building projects were approved for all three schools in the centre. It is envisaged that, when these projects are completed, there will be sufficient accommodation available to meet future needs.

At post-primary level in Athy, the position is that a new school building to cater for 350 pupils has been sanctioned for St. Brigid's vocational school. Written confirmation has been received, also, that the two other post-primary schools, Scoil Eoin and Scoil Mhuire, have agreed to amalgamate and a meeting has been arranged with the school authorities to arrive at an agreed schedule of accommodation. When this process is complete, the Department will conduct a technical examination of both school sites in order to assess which is more suitable to provide the necessary permanent accommodation.

I am satisfied that, with the provision of a new building for St. Brigid's vocational school and the accommodation required to enable the amalgamation of Scoil Eoin and Scoil Mhuire to take place, there will be sufficient post-primary places available in Athy to meet future needs.