Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 69: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the primary schools in Dublin 2, Dublin 4, Dublin 6 and Dublin 8; the number of places available for the student year 2007-08 in each school; the enrolment for 2007-08 in each school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13197/08]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The number of primary schools operating in the areas of Dublin referred to by the Deputy is as follows. Dublin 2 is served by three primary schools with a total current enrolment of 315 pupils. Dublin 4 is served by 12 primary schools, including two special schools, with a total current enrolment of 2,166 pupils. Dublin 6 is served by 19 primary schools, including three special schools, with a total current enrolment of 4,816 pupils. Dublin 8 is served by 17 primary schools, including two special schools, with a total current enrolment of 2,829 pupils.

Details of all 51 schools and their respective 2007-08 enrolments have been compiled for the Deputy and they will be forwarded to him immediately.

The exact number of places available in each school is not easily quantified given that increasing space norms and reductions in the pupil-teacher ratio, combined with significant increases in ex-quota staff in recent years effectively mean that the actual number of classrooms in a school may not directly relate to its capacity. If schools feel they do not have sufficient places to meet demand, they should contact the Department so the situation can be examined as to how best to provide whatever additional capacity is required.

It is important to point out that the Department's responsibility is to ensure that schools in any given area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking school places. This approach ensures the use of existing accommodation is maximised and that the development and support of one school over others does not occur.

The forward planning section of my Department will keep the position in the areas outlined under review to ensure that any additional emerging needs are met as expeditiously as possible. The forward planning section is in the process of identifying the areas where significant additional accommodation will be required at primary and post-primary level for 2009 and onwards.

Factors under consideration include population growth, demographic trends, current and projected enrolments, recent and planned housing developments and capacity of existing schools to meet demand for places. Having considered these factors decisions will be taken on the means by which emerging needs will be met within an area.