I propose to take Questions Nos. 244, 246, 248 and 252 together.
As the Deputy is aware the decision making authority for any amalgamation is the Patron/Trustees of the schools, and this is subject to the approval of my Department. I can confirm to the Deputy that my Department has recently approved an application from Cavan Monaghan Education & Training Board to amalgamate St Mogues College and St Bricin’s College in West Cavan.
The schools will continue to operate from the existing school sites until a new school building can be provided for the amalgamated school. It is envisaged that the construction phase for the new amalgamated school will be facilitated with investment available during the second half of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2018 to 2027.
The new amalgamated school will enable facilities to be modernised in an energy efficient building that will be compliant with Part L of the Building Regulations 2017. It will also provide the opportunity for the school to have a fully equipped PE Hall facility with fitness suite together with a 2-class special education needs base.