Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As I said, the request has been received and is being assessed. The overall position with regard to potential modernisation and the replacement of existing school infrastructure will be kept under review as capital funding allocations are clarified. The Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform will engage with other Departments on national development plan, NDP, allocations for the period 2026 to 2028 over the coming months, with allocation decisions expected during the first half of 2024.

I assure the Deputy that the provision of required school places, including for children with special educational needs, is a priority for my Department. My officials will work to ensure there is sufficient provision to meet the school place needs in the schools referenced by the Deputy and in the wider school planning area. This will include a focus on any school accommodation provision that may be required in the short to medium term.

As I outlined, the application for amalgamation is being reviewed and contact will be made with the patron shortly in that regard.

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