Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 April 2018
435. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a decision has been issued by his Department, following nationwide demographic exercises, that will determine the locations in which additional school accommodation will be needed in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16301/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, I announced plans for the establishment of 42 new schools over the next 4 years (2019 to 2022). This announcement follows nationwide, demographic exercises carried out by my Department into the future need for primary and post-primary schools across the country and the 4-year horizon will enable increased lead-in times for planning and delivery of the necessary infrastructure.
In addition to the new schools announced, there will be a need for further school accommodation in other areas in the future. Based on the current analysis, this need can be addressed through either planned capacity increases in existing schools or additional accommodation or extensions to existing schools. Approximately 40% of extra school places are delivered by extending existing schools.
I have highlighted that the requirement for new schools will be kept under on-going review and in particular would have regard for the increased roll-out of housing provision as outlined in Project Ireland 2040.
