Pádraig O'Sullivan (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I add my voice to what the previous speakers said. I spent 15 years teaching in Cork city and the east Cork area. We have debated this issue with the Minister in the past. I echo the sentiments of both Deputies O'Connor and Stanton regarding the lack of places that are available. I understand the modelling will show there might be a fall off in 2026 or 2027.

There is definitely pressure at the moment. I got a phone call as late as yesterday evening to say a child had been offered a place but I know there are still dozens of children who do not have one, particularly in that north Cork area and east Cork, where there is particular pressure. That said, even the Cork Education and Training Board would say privately to us that an extra school is probably required in the greater east Cork area. I ask the Minister if she can clarify any assessment that has been taken in the last year to assess the need for that school.

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