Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 31 March 2004
154 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding an application for a site for a new school for Gaelscoil Phort Laoise in the Kilminchy area of Portlaoise in view of the fact that planning permission for the site is being processed at the moment by Laois County Council; and when the Department will approve this application for Gaelscoil Phort Laoise for their site for their new school. [10160/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraGaelscoil Phort Laoise was established with provisional recognition in September 1998 to cater for the demand in the area for primary education through the medium of Irish. The school was granted permanent recognition by my Department in September 2000. The Gaelscoil is currently housed in temporary accommodation on the grounds of Portlaoise GAA Club. My Department grant-aids 95% of the rental costs on these premises.
The securing of interim accommodation, pending the availability of resources from my Department to provide permanent accommodation for the school, remains the responsibility of the patron body. I am aware that the Gaelscoil is seeking alternative accommodation for September 2004. The school authorities have submitted a proposal, which would involve the rental of a site in the Kilminchy area of Portlaoise and the placing of temporary accommodation thereon, as a solution to its impending accommodation problems.
There are significant costs attached to this proposal in terms of site development, annual leasing of site and temporary portacabins and the financial implications will be carefully examined before a final decision is made.
Officials from the planning and building unit of my Department are currently examining this proposal and are in regular communication with the school authorities in the matter. The school authorities will be advised of my Department's decision on the proposal as soon as possible.
