Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is not a decision that I make. The inspectorate will look at the accommodation currently available and the merit of the application against the ability to deliver the progress that needs to be delivered. The decision will be made on that fair and equal basis. Senator Murnane O'Connor has to bear in mind that capital funds are still under pressure. We have continued growth at both primary and secondary levels this year, with roughly 10,000 extra students to be accommodated at each level. That is the reality of the present climate. Most countries in Europe would give their right arms to have such strong growth in pupil numbers. It is a sign of a young growing population.