Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 November 2012
259. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans regarding the amalgamation of schools (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49558/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that a major capital works application was submitted to my Department in respect of a new school for the proposed amalgamation of the schools referred to by the Deputy. The current status of all projects on the school building programme, including the schools referred to by the Deputy, may be viewed on my Department's website at www.education.ie and this is being updated regularly throughout the year. As you are aware, a five year plan was announced on 12th March 2012 which prioritises building projects which will meet the growing demographic needs. In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects required to meet demographic demand will be the main focus for capital investment in the coming years. As the area referred to by the Deputy has not been identified as an area of rapid demographic growth, the new school building project to facilitate the proposed amalgamation was not included in the five year plan and it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time. As an interim measure, the school authorities submitted a proposal in March 2012 to operate as Junior/Senior schools. My Department has sought further clarification from the schools concerned and will give further consideration to the proposal when the information concerned is received.
