The decision to open a new school in Knocknacarra was made following a detailed study of the available demographic data for the area. My officials had a meeting with a deputation of principals from the area in late March to discuss the local principals' concerns regarding the need for a new school in the area. The issues raised by the principals at that meeting are being considered further.
For the five year construction programme, new school building projects as well as major extensions have been prioritised to meet projected increases in demographic needs in areas where such needs have been identified as being most acute.
School building projects currently in architectural planning, including the project referred to by the Deputy, will continue to be advanced within the context of the funding available. However, in light of current competing demands on my Department's capital budget, it is not possible to progress this project to construction at this time.