Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

To be fair, we have seen considerable progress in Limerick and we are also seeing very considerable investment by the Department in either new school buildings or additional accommodation. I have listed them for the Deputy, whether it is the 1,000-pupil school buildings for two recently established schools, Mungret Community College and Limerick ETSS, the new school buildings for Laurel Hill, including the Gaelcholáiste aspect of Laurel Hill, Ardscoil Mhuire and Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh, as well as extensions at Castletroy College, Thomond Community College and Coláiste Mhichíl.

Specifically in terms of the additional places that have been made available, it is important to note that it would appear at this point that there will be additional capacity, rather than required capacity. I acknowledge both Thomond Community College and Limerick Educate Together secondary school in this regard and their agreement to add the additional classes.

I also point out that schools are required under the Education Act to offer places in line with their admissions policy and to work through their waiting lists accordingly. Where a student accepts one of the newly-created places but already has a place in a different school, that original place will become available. Overall, the additional capacity being provided in Limerick city is expected to meet the need for first year places. Nevertheless, the Department will continue to monitor the situation to ensure there are sufficient places available to meet the overall requirements.

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