Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 February 2004
206 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the methodology and conclusions of the most recent analysis of the planning and provisions for the post-primary education needs in the south inner city of Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5271/04]
Amharc ar fhreagra209 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the catchment area, in geographical terms of the Dublin south inner city area, for the purposes of post-primary school enrolment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5275/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 206 and 209 together.
Historically, there are no defined catchment areas in large urban centres. Pupils generally tend to gravitate to schools nearest their residence. Choice is usually made on the basis of curricular options on offer in a school, differing ethos and the nature of provision, such as single sex or co-educational provision. There are three post-primary providers in the south inner city of Dublin, namely, Christian Brothers School, Westland Row, St. Mary's secondary school, Haddington Road, and the Technical Institute, Ringsend.
The principal of Westland Row CBS applied for a new post-primary school. Given the current combined enrolment of the three schools in the south inner city area is 444 pupils, my Department is exploring the possibility of a single school development to facilitate the needs of the area with the relevant trustees. Accommodation options for a single school campus are being examined as part of the process.
The application mentioned a site in the area of the Dublin Docklands Development Authority. Following discussions with the authority, officials from my Department's school planning section are satisfied that a site in the area is not a viable option due principally to the limited area available.
