Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I wish to raise the matter of the amalgamation of two schools in Tramore, County Waterford. The amalgamation of Stella Maris, which was run by the Sisters of Charity, and the Christian Brothers school for boys happened in 2000. I compliment both boards of management on agreeing to amalgamate. Amalgamation of schools is to be encouraged and the Department of Education and Science has done so.

The schools were assured that a new building would be in place within two years of amalgamation. Four years have elapsed and there is still no sign of the building. Much correspondence and negotiations have been entered into while a feasibility study has been conducted and the results are positive and complete. The board of management is still unaware of a commencement date for the building of the new school.

Tramore is one of the fastest growing towns in the country and there is a pressing need for the school. Numbers in both schools have increased significantly over the years because of the growth in population. I ask the Minister to give a clear indication of when the building of the school will commence as there is a pressing need. All the necessary criteria have been satisfied. A free site is available from the community for the Department and that is not something that happens very often. I ask the Minister to use her good offices to ensure work commences early in the new year.