Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 119: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when will she address the difficulties at a school (details supplied) in County Galway; if she will ensure a school will remain in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4996/07]

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 178: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she will address the difficulties at a school (details supplied) in County Offaly; if she will ensure a school will remain in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4986/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 119 and 178 together.

The Trustees of the school referred to have confirmed their intention to close the school and have recently reaffirmed to the Department that the closure will be on a phased basis and will commence in September 2007, with all students in junior cycle being given the option of proceeding to senior cycle, including the opportunity to avail of a transition year. The Trustees have also confirmed that the current site will not be available for the provision of post-primary education once the school closes.

Having considered the immediate implications of the decision by the Sisters of Mercy, I can confirm that the Department will facilitate the enrolment in Gort Community School of students from the Kinvara area by changing the existing catchment area. The Department will be meeting with the school authorities to discuss the matter.