Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 April 2004
93 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the McCarthy Report in the provision of education in County Laois; when he expects it will progress in relation to this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10967/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that a facilitator, Dr Tom McCarthy, was appointed to assist in the development of a long-term plan for the provision of primary and post-primary infrastructure in the Portlaoise area.
Following receipt of his recommendations, it was decided that educational provision at post primary level required to be addressed as a matter of urgency. This matter has now been finalised with the decision to provide three new post-primary schools in Portlaoise — two voluntary secondary schools and a VEC school. The new VEC school is due to go to construction this year and discussions in regard to the provision of the other two schools are ongoing with the trustees.
Officials in the school planning section of my Department are now examining educational provision at primary level with a view to establishing the best way forward. The school authorities will be kept informed of developments.
