School Accommodation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013

Tuesday, 11 June 2013

Ceisteanna (221, 305)

Niall Collins

Ceist:

221. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will explain the delay in announcing a decision in respect of the future accommodation needs of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; if he appreciated that the school community has campaigned for 28 years for the permanent accommodation; if he accepts the urgent need for such a decision in view of the continued development of the school population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27101/13]

Peter Mathews

Ceist:

305. Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to provide alternative accommodation for (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27674/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

I propose to take Questions Nos. 221 and 305 together.

I wish to advise the Deputies that my Department is aware of the accommodation needs of the school in question. Professional and Technical staff from South Dublin County Council and my Department have discussed possibilities in relation to using lands adjacent to the existing school for a new school building. However, given the challenges identified with these lands, my Department is exploring with South Dublin County Council whether other options in the general area might offer a better long-term solution to the school's accommodation requirements before a final decision is made on the matter. My officials will be in further contact with the school authority as soon as a further update is available.