Mary Mitchell O'Connor (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. The ETB has advised the Department that the series of meetings which the Deputy talked about has taken place. The object of the consultation, according to the ETB, was to provide additional information on the proposed amalgamation of both schools and to ensure that any concerns raised are heard and taken into account. Of the meetings held with the stakeholders to date, the general consensus expressed is that the proposed amalgamation is the only means of rectifying the deficiencies within both school buildings.

The Department's view on amalgamation proposals generally is that every case needs to be considered by all involved on its own merits. In areas of mature population where enrolment numbers are reducing over time and school buildings are not being utilised to full capacity, or where there is a separate single-sex school, amalgamation can also be merited. Equally, it has to be recognised that there can be significant sensitivities involved. These are best addressed through a process of local dialogue and consultation aimed at ensuring that any proposal meets the interests of the communities concerned. The ETB has considered that a new school catering for the enrolment of 500 students would better serve the educational needs of the area and provide improved facilities for both schools. A new school would also strengthen the continuance of a post-primary school provision in the west Cavan area.

Those are the notes that I have from the Minister's office. I will absolutely raise with the Minister the very succinct points the Deputy has made.

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