Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2015
491. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills her plans to address the issue of school enrolment difficulties throughout the country with particular references to areas experiencing demographic fluctuations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3899/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra502. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which she remains satisfied that the current school building programme remains adequate to meet primary and second level accommodation requirements at all schools throughout County Kildare; her plans to deal with any exceptions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3910/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 491 and 502 together.
The Deputy will be aware that my Department's Five Year Construction Plan announced in March 2012, together with the schools announced in June 2013 under the Government's "investment in Infrastructure & Jobs" package and the schools included in the 2015 construction programme, details the major school projects, including those for County Kildare, that will commence construction over the duration of my Department's €2 billion capital investment programme (2012-2016). The primary aim at the core of my Department's construction programme is focussed on meeting demographic demands to ensure that every child will have access to a physical school place and that our school system is in a position to cope with increasing pupil numbers.
In addition, my Department considers applications on an ongoing basis from individual schools for funding to meet an immediate accommodation requirement because of increased enrolments and where an additional teacher is being appointed.
My Department continuously analyses demographic trends and enrolments in all areas to ensure that any additional accommodation needs are addressed in a timely manner.
The current status of all projects on the school building programme may be viewed on my Department's website at www.education.ie and this is updated regularly throughout the year.
