Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for the opportunity to speak with her today. I express my gratitude for her very positive comments on the school sector and Department. She is correct that a significant body of work has been undertaken by the entire education sector to ensure our schools could operate safely and continue to operate. It is a significant achievement that today I can say that we in the education sector cater for 1 million students in 4,000 schools with 100,000 staff. They are not operating without challenges in particular areas, and we are conscious of that. Significant resources have been provided for schools so that they can operate. I have been consistent in my view that resources are significant but they would be of no value if the goodwill and generosity was not available on the ground to implement them. We have seen that in abundance in the education sector. It is a positive reflection on society that schools continue to be supported to operate.

On St. Patrick's National School and the issue the Senator raised, the specific school was not flagged with me in advance. If it had been flagged in advance, I would have had a more specific and detailed answer for her. I will commit to her that engagement will be provided by my officials regarding a specific update on the school.

In general terms, we have a very significant building programme within the Department of Education. The provision of new builds and additional accommodation, as required, is all provided for. Even during lockdown, the school building programme continued. It always continues, with the collaboration of and close engagement with patron bodies and schools. The Senator referred to local authorities, which have been very helpful and have engaged with us positively in advancing specific education needs in specific locations. We have benefited very much from the proactive engagement of the partners in education. I acknowledge that local authorities have played a role where necessary.

In respect of St. Patrick's National School, I am happy for my officials and the Department to examine the matter. I will revert to the Senator in due course with an update.