Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. He is absolutely correct. He knows better than I do that there is increasing demand for school places in the Newcastle-Rathcoole school planning area due to new residential development. So far, the response of the Department and Government has included the establishment of Coláiste Pobal Fóla in Citywest in August 2020 and the expansion of Holy Family Community School in Rathcoole. I understand that new large-scale post-primary school projects are going to site this year for both of those schools, which will accommodate over 2,000 pupils. The Deputy's challenge to the Government relates to future protections and demand. I understand that the Department regularly meets representatives of South Dublin County Council on the issue and will keep the need for a school in Newcastle under review. The Minister for Education and Youth will keep in close contact with the Deputy on the matter.

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