Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

The board was aware of this phenomenon and decided to carry out a comprehensive survey in its area to determine whether there is an actual shortfall in junior infant places. The Minister is impressed with the school's attitude to the position it has found itself in and welcomes the approach it has adopted. We should all be equally sensible and await the outcome of the school's survey before talking about a crisis situation that may not exist.

The board has been in communication with the Department of Education and Science about the provision of additional accommodation. The Department will respond positively and quickly to whatever the needs of the school, as identified by the board, might be this year. Furthermore, it will review the school's long-term accommodation needs for the purposes of expediting the provision of permanent accommodation if significant extra enrolments are going to be a continuing feature.

I commend the school on the measured and calm approach it is taking in this matter. I appreciate its willingness to play its role in meeting the demands in its area and I assure the board and the parents that the Department will not be found wanting if extra accommodation resources are required.

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter and assure her that just because significant interventions are now being made in Dublin 15 does not mean the Department considers that its job is finished. Departmental staff are well aware that more accommodation may be needed in Dublin 15 and are engaging with the key school patron authorities that are active in the area in this regard.

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