Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 January 2017
226. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to support the provision of additional land and facilities at a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3136/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe delivery of school projects so that all schools in an area can between them cater for all students seeking a school place is the main focus of my Department's capital budget.
To this end my Department uses a Geographical Information System (GIS) to identify the areas under increased demographic pressure nationwide. The system uses a range of data sources in carrying out nationwide demographic exercises to determine where additional school accommodation is needed. The outcome of the latest demographic exercises was that in November 2015, 13 new schools were announced to open nationwide in 2017 and 2018. This is in addition to a new primary school to cater for demographic growth which opened in September 2016 to serve the Drumcondra/Marino/Dublin 1 school planning area. This area is adjacent to the school planning area in which the school in question is located. My Department is also aware that there is existing capacity in primary schools in the Coolock/Darndale/Artane/Edenmore areas.
I wish to advise the Deputy that I have made arrangements to meet with the school, in question, to clarify the position and to discuss any other issues they may have.
