Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 June 2010
353 Deputy Mary Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the numbers required for a primary school to obtain permanent recognition; the numbers for a post primary school to obtain permanent recognition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24434/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraA primary school can be considered for permanent recognition by the Department if:
it was established with a minimum enrolment of 17 Junior infants on 30th September in the year of establishment; it has reached a total enrolment of 51 or more pupils within 3 years of establishment; and the relevant local inspector confirms that the school is viable and is operating in adherence to the ‘Rules for National Schools'
At post-primary level my Department must be satisfied that there is a need for such a school having regard to existing provision, if any, for post-primary education in the district.
In considering an application for permanent recognition due regard is had to the demonstrated growth, success and continuity of the school. As a guideline, it may be taken that a minimum overall enrolment of 300 pupils would be required in order to provide a comprehensive curriculum.
With regard to the criteria for All-Irish permanent recognition, my Department is guided by a Commission on School Accommodation (CSA) Report produced in 2004 on the "Criteria and Procedures for establishing and maintaining provision through the medium of Irish in second level schools".
As the Deputy may be aware, a review of the procedures for the establishment of new primary schools is currently being undertaken by the Commission on School Accommodation. A Technical Working Group, under the direction of the Chairman of the Commission, was established for this purpose. This group has almost completed its work and it is expected that it will make recommendations to me shortly. Among the many issues being considered by the Technical Working Group is the issue of the minimum number of pupils required for the commencement of new schools.
