Vol. 567 No. 1
238 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science when he proposes to provide funding for an extension to Castleblayney Community College, Castleblayney, County Monaghan, together with refurbishment works which were promised prior to the 2002 general election; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13468/03]
The capital programme for 2003 has been published. Full details of projects are available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.
In view of the scale of the programme and having regard to the level of financial commitments to be met from projects already in construction, my Department does not envisage that it will be in a position during this year to initiate architectural planning on any further large scale building projects. This includes the project at the Castleblayney Community College.
The commencement of architectural planning stage depends on the funding allocation for 2004 and subsequent years.
239 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of an extra classroom at Fenit primary school, Tralee, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13480/03]
I assume the Deputy is referring to St. Brendan's national school, Fenit, Tralee, County Kerry.
My Department has approved temporary accommodation for this school. This project is in section 12, primary, of the updated building programme published on my Department's website yesterday. New projects are highlighted in green. These projects are being funded from the contingency sum for emergencies as set out in section 1 of the programme.
240 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will meet a delegation representing students, parents and staff of St. Brigid's secondary school, Goresbridge, County Kilkenny; and if so, when this meeting can take place. [13499/03]
As outlined to the Deputy in a recent parliamentary question, the school's future has been under review for some time. I am satisfied that educational provision should be phased out over a two year period, with final closure in June 2005. I have advised the owners and trustees accordingly. To facilitate an orderly closure the school authorities will not accept a first year intake in September.
I am confident that arrangements can be made to facilitate the placement of pupils from St. Brigid's in neighbouring schools as the situation arises. Arrangements are currently being made to accommodate the remaining pupils during the phasing out of the school through the provision of temporary accommodation.
