Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Fitzgerald for raising the matter as it affords me the opportunity, on behalf of the Minister, to clarify the position of the Department of Education and Science regarding the playing fields at Scoil Chrónáin. In 2003, the Department agreed to dispose of a small portion of its lands at Scoil Chrónáin to facilitate the upgrading of the N7 and to provide alternative access from Main Street, Rathcoole. This small portion of land formed part of the school's playing field. The agreement was subject to a number of conditions, including the making good and reseeding of the playing field on completion of the works.

While the improved access has now been provided, the Department was notified by a representative of the school management that some works still remain outstanding, specifically relating to the reinstatement of the playing field. The Department subsequently raised the matter with South Dublin County Council, which has advised that the only outstanding works at present relate to landscaping of the green space that was affected by the provision of the access road. The Department is further advised that a landscaping contractor recently commenced works to cut back growth on the site and that the area will be top soiled and reseeded.

As Senator Fitzgerald will appreciate, the school management is better placed to monitor progress of the works and to ensure their completion. The Department will shortly be contacting the school management in this regard. I can confirm that the school site, including the playing field, is in State ownership and that there are no proposals at the present time to sell any of the lands in question. Once the grounds are reinstated the field can be used by the school for recreational purposes. I thank the Senator once again for raising this matter and allowing me to clarify the Department's position relating to these lands.