School Accommodation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2019

Tuesday, 9 July 2019

Ceisteanna (254)

Louise O'Reilly

Ceist:

254. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps he will take in view of the fact that the application for the provision of a primary school on a temporary basis at a location has been rejected; his plans to avert the crisis unfolding due to the rejection of the planning application; and if temporary accommodation will be available for new students to attend a school (details supplied) in August and September 2019. [29728/19]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

The site location for the school to which the Deputy refers was identified in consultation with the Local Authority for interim accommodation pending delivery of the schools permanent accommodation.

The planning application was submitted to Fingal County Council on 17 April, 2019 for development of interim accommodation within the grounds of the existing car park at 85/87 Main Street, Swords.  A request for Further Information received on 10th June, 2019 from the local authority is currently being finalised and a response is expected to be submitted this week.  Then a decision on the planning application is awaited.

My Department has been in contact with the school's patron body Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB) and pending the planning decision alternative arrangements have been made for the school to open in the Riasc Centre, Feltrim Road, Drinan in September 2019.  DDLETB have communicated this position to parents of enrolled children.