Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 262: To ask the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 284 of 3 December 2008, if he will clarify his statement that Glasnevin is already served by two multi-denominational schools; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the only other multi-denominational school in Glasnevin is full, has long waiting lists and is unable to meet local demand; his views on whether there is an undisputed established demand for a school (details supplied) in this area in view of its long waiting lists; and if, in view of same, he will grant permanent recognition to this school. [45741/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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Multi-denominational schools serve a broad demographic area. On this basis, my Department considers that the North city, including Glasnevin, is served by two multi-denominational schools namely the North Dublin National School Project and Dublin 7 Educate Together NS.

The Department accepted the argument made by the proposers of the school in question that there was a need for a separate multi-denominational school to serve the Clontarf/ Marino/Fairview area of Dublin and the school was given temporary recognition on the basis that the Patron would secure suitable accommodation in that area to meet this need. To date, the Patron has not been able to do this and the school is currently located on a temporary basis in premises outside the Clontarf/Marino/Fairview area. It continues to be my Department's intention to re-locate this school to that area if and when suitable accommodation becomes available and as the funding situation allows.

If there is a need for further multi-denominational school places in the Glasnevin area, my Department will explore how these can be provided in the context of the pre-existing schools, which is in accordance with normal procedures in these matters.