Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Taoiseach for what is generally a positive and constructive approach. I ask that the matter be dealt with as a matter of urgency. It has been dragging on for a number of years. Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed is a very successful and progressive school and the management and staff there have been outstanding. They are delivering excellence in education under extremely difficult circumstances. The board of management is constantly refusing entry to children and parents are asking why. Under the current restrictions, parents are unable to access the school of their choice in the Thurles area and this must be rectified.

The Department must recognise that the school needs and deserves proper accommodation and facilities. I have gone through this with everybody involved. The only solution is a new school. Adding extensions and using ad hoctemporary solutions is a waste of public money. We need a new school either on the existing site or as proposed, on the Mary Immaculate College campus in Thurles. Could the Taoiseach ask the officials to give it priority?

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