Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is the briefing I have here. I also understand from the Department's response that there are no plans at present to recognise both as one education centre. The Deputy is correct that there are two post-primary schools in Carrigtwohill, that is, Carrigtwohill Post-Primary School and St Aloysius' College, and four in Midleton, namely, Midleton C.B.S. Secondary School, St. Mary's High School, St. Colman's Community College and Midleton College.

I also understand that 168 pupils who live in Carrigtwohill avail of transport to Midleton and that 141 pupils who attend Midleton avail of transport alleviation measures. I appreciate what the Deputy said about concessionary services as well. I know there are additional services and increased-size buses were provided in terms of an interim measure before the review kicks in. My understanding is that the review is ongoing. The fact that the Deputy brought it up in the Dáil may be no harm. The Department will be aware of it and can take that into account when it is undertaking its review.

They are two distinct post-primary centres and my understanding is that the Department has no plans to change that at present. It is important that children have transport, however. My understanding is there is no child without transport to and from school at the moment.

From what the Deputy said, even though it is a separate issue, the waiting list issue is interlinked. Again, I will bring his contribution to the Minister for Education. The Deputy mentioned that he had a meeting with her because of the issues around this. I am aware of it on a regular basis in that I must ensure children with additional needs all receive placements and an appropriate education, preferably in their locality. It is not always possible but that is what we endeavour to do. Obviously, that applies for mainstream schools as well.

It is difficult to micromanage if parents put their names down for different schools at the same time. Nevertheless, I understand the rationale for doing so when the Deputy tells me they are concerned that their child may not get into a particular school and, therefore, cover all bases by putting the children's names down. The Department has a geographical information system in order that it can forecast and anticipate demand and capacity in different areas through the building and planning unit. That is obviously something else that needs to be looked at in this regard.

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