Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
464. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason for the delay in the opening of a new school (details supplied); when the school community will be in a position to occupy the proposed temporary buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32232/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Government announced plans in April 2018 for the establishment of 42 new schools over the next four years (2019 to 2022), including a new 600 pupil post-primary school to be established in September 2019 as a regional solution to serve the area to which the Deputy refers.
A planning application for the interim accommodation for the school was lodged with Meath County Council on 11 June 2019 and a decision is awaited.
My Department is in constant contact with the school's patron body Educate Together and agreement has been reached that pending the outcome of the planning decision alternative arrangements have been made for the school to open in Department owned accommodation in Laytown.
Educate Together have communicated this position to parents of enrolled children, and I can confirm that the school will open as announced in suitable interim accommodation in September 2019.
When planning permission is secured the interim accommodation will be installed at the intended location and the school will revert to that location at the earliest possible date.
