Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 December 2011
72 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has given any consideration to the possibility of developing educational facilities on lands in the ownership of the Department of Defence at Magee Barracks, Kildare town; if he has had any approaches from the Department of Defence in relation to these lands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38251/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm to the Deputy that following an assessment of demographic data and the enrolment trends of primary schools in the Kildare Town area, I announced in June of this year that a new primary school will be required for the area in the coming years.
In this regard, my Department is currently considering a number of accommodation options including the possible acquisition of lands at Magee Barracks in the ownership of the Department of Defence. I can confirm that discussions have taken place with Department of Defence officials and a technical inspection of the lands at Magee Barracks has been carried out.
The acquisition of a suitable site and the delivery of a new school building will be considered in the context of existing commitments and other competing demands on my Department's capital budget.
