I propose to answer Questions Nos. 564 and 565 together.
Officials of the planning and building unit of my Department have conducted a thorough examination of education provision at post-primary level in the north Clare area. As part of this examination, careful consideration was given to all relevant factors, including the pattern of enrolment in Mary Immaculate secondary school, demographic trends in the area and developments in neighbouring centres. Based on the outcome of this examination, I concluded that there is a long-term requirement for a post-primary school in Lisdoonvarna.
My Department will shortly be in contact with the school authorities regarding their accommodation requirements.