Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

Recent birth rate data published by the CSO shows almost 20,000 births were registered in the first quarter of 2011. This is the highest number of births registered in a quarter since the series began in 1960. It is vital the schooling system is prepared to cope with these increasing numbers. Therefore, the Government's priority over the next five years will have to be focused on major school projects to meet these increasing demographic demands. As such enrolment increases are not uniformly distributed nationally, the Department has carried out a study of the country using data from the Central Statistics Office, the General Registry Office and the Department of Social Protection in addition to recent schools enrolment data to identify areas in which there will be sufficient future enrolment increases. The information used is the most accurate and up-to-date available.

The five year programme is primarily focused on meeting increasing demographic needs. In this context it has not been possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently. However, it is my intention that all school building projects, including in particular the project for Holy Rosary College, will continue to be advanced incrementally over time in the context of the funding available. However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget it is not possible at this time. If additional funds become available, and the increase in demand to which Deputy Connaughton referred in his comments can be sustained and demonstrated, I will certainly examine ensuring that Holy Rosary College moves into a space that would be created if another school project does not go ahead.

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