Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes, it would be beneficial if everybody knows the story.

I complimented the Department of Education. During my time in government, we got St. Patrick's special school in Enniscorthy and it is a fabulous facility that cost almost €12 million. Last year, the Minister for Education visited St. Patrick's special school and because the project was not finished it was officially opened at a later date. The school must now rent property like it had to do two years ago because, as its principal said to me, when one builds it they will come. Unfortunately, we have an increasing number of people with disabilities so families and parents want to send their sons and daughters to the very best which is the newly built St. Patrick's special school. Without doubt it is a role model for any special school in Europe. The design team in the Department of Education did a fantastic job as did the developer, the builder and everyone involved. The Department planned with the size of the school in mind but, unfortunately, the school is now looking for additional accommodation. I suggest that the Department when designing considers how many pupils will attend the school in the future.

St. Aidan's primary school in Enniscorthy is the biggest primary school outside of Dublin and now seeks an extension. I have spoken to Mr. Frank Murphy, the school principal, and learned that the school will be caught for space, building up is not an option and building out would reduce the amount of play areas. I will pursue this project with the building section when the school decides what it wants to do. Does the Department plan for the future when designing new schools? When designing a school project, especially a special school, and adding to an existing school are population projections considered by the Department?