Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I wish to clarify the current position on the school in Carraroe, County Galway. The Senator will be aware of the demographic challenge facing the education system in the coming years. Primary enrolments, which have already risen substantially in recent years, are projected to rise by over 36,000 pupils by 2016 and are set to continue to rise, with a likely peak at around 574,000 pupils to be catered for in 2018. This compares with 526,422 pupils enrolled in primary schools for the 2012-2013 school year. It is vital that there is sufficient school accommodation to cope with these pupil enrolments.

In order to meet the needs of our growing population of school going children, my Department's priority is to establish new schools as well as extending or replacing a number of existing schools in areas where demographic growth has been identified. The delivery of these new schools, together with extension projects to meet future demand, will continue to be the main focus for investment by my Department in the coming years.

However, regarding the school at Tigh Nan Dooley in Carraroe, County Galway, what will be of more interest to the Senator is that this school was transferred to my Department from the Health Service Executive in 2007.It has eight pupils enrolled in the 2014-2015 academic year and has a staffing of a principal and one special class teacher. I understand that the school is accommodated in a purpose built development centre owned by the school's patron, Ability West. The school applied for permanent recognition, which was granted by my Department in 2010. I can confirm that the school submitted an application for funding in 2012. The project wasnot progressed at that time due to the need to prioritise essential mainstream accommodation to meet demographic needs and the school was advised of the outcome.

However, my Department would be prepared to consider an application for funding to meet an immediate accommodation requirement, including works to address accessibility issues in respect of the school in question. Officials from my Department will be in contact with the school authorities to discuss the accommodation issues at the school in the coming days. I again thank the Senator for giving me the opportunity to outline the position regarding Tigh Nan Dooley, Carraroe, County Galway.