Vol. 547 No. 1
1362 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which the existing primary school places and facilities are adequate to meet current and projected requirements at Kilcock, County Kildare; his plans for further improvements in this regard; if a timetable has been identified for such improvements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2585/02]
With the exception of Gaelscoil Uí Riada, for which a new school building is currently in architectural planning, primary school enrolments in Kilcock have remained static in recent years. However, in view of proposed housing developments in the Kilcock area, the planning and building unit of my Department has determined that an extension will be required at Clochar Cóca Naofa national school to replace existing temporary accommodation and to allow for an anticipated increase in numbers. My Department will continue to monitor school accommodation requirements in the Kilcock area and any additional needs will be addressed as expeditiously as possible.
1363 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of permanent facilities at Scoil Uí Riada, Kilcock, County Kildare; when it is expected that such facilities will be ready for occupation; the extent of his proposals in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2586/02]
The allocation for primary buildings in 2002 is 153.6 million, which is a record level of funding and demonstrates this Government's commitment to improving accommodation in primary schools. This is almost four times the previous Government's investment in 1997. In view of the greatly increased level of activity in the primary buildings area since this Government came into office, there has been a substantial increase in the number of major and minor building projects in construction and this has given rise to a record level of building and refurbishment activity.
Scoil Uí Riada is being refurbished as part of the Government's programme and is currently in architectural planning. It will continue to the preparation of tender documents and the invitation to tenders as soon as it is possible to do so under the expanded building programme.
1364 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has satisfied himself regarding the adequacy of places and facilities at primary school level in Clane, County Kildare; his proposals for augmentation, having regard to population trends; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2587/02]
Primary school enrolments in Clane have shown a gradual increase in recent years. I am satisfied, however, that there is sufficient classroom accommodation in the existing schools to meet demand. The board of management of St. Patrick's boys' national school recently received grant aid in respect of minor ancillary works. My Department is not in receipt of any other application for enhanced accommodation or refurbishment works from either of the primary schools in Clane.
