Jimmy Devins (Sligo-Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for allowing me raise the important issue of a new school for Dromore West in County Sligo. Dromore West Central national school is situated in Dromore West village in west Sligo. Dromore West is a designated growth area under Sligo County Council's development plan. It has experienced rapid growth in population in the recent past. The school is in a bad condition and in urgent need of replacement. Unfortunately, this has been the position for some time.

There have been ongoing discussions between the board of management and the Department as to whether a new school should be built or whether the existing school should be reconstructed and extended. I am pleased to say that agreement has been reached that a new school is the answer. That is the correct way forward. There has been much discussion locally and great interest in the future of the school. In that regard, the board of management, teachers and parents are to be congratulated on their commitment to and interest in the school.

I would be grateful if the Minister of State would outline to the House and for the people of Dromore West the current status of the school's application for a new building. I have spoken with the Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Hanafin, and have communicated with her and her Department in regard to the school on many occasions. I know the Minister of State is well aware of the need for a new school. I strongly urge that Dromore West Central national school be included in the 2007 schools building programme.

The children, parents, teachers, board of management and wider community in Dromore West village and its surroundings are badly in need of this new school. I ask that the school be sanctioned early in the new year.

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