School Accommodation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 April 2016

Thursday, 14 April 2016

Ceisteanna (741)

John Deasy

Ceist:

741. Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Skills her discussions to date with Ardscoil na Mara in Tramore in County Waterford and local feeder schools including Fenor National School, regarding recent changes to the secondary school’s admissions policy; the proposals she has received with a view to expanding Ardscoil na Mara to cater for increasing demand from within the town and surrounding areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7207/16]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

I wish to advise the Deputy that it is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of all schools to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act,1998. The enrolment policy must be non-discriminatory and must be applied fairly in respect of all applicants. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking school places in the area.

My Department has been in ongoing contact with the school, referred to by the Deputy, in relation to the pupil enrolment issues that have emerged in the school. The Department is aware of the position of the feeder schools, also referred to, and is taking account of this in its deliberations. There is a diverse range of issues involved however my Department is currently focusing with the school on the additional accommodation capacity required to provide for increasing pupil enrolments in its feeder area and the ways in which this might best be achieved.

Question No. 742 answered with Question No. 658.