Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 50: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools recognised by his Department in 2008 at both primary and post-primary level; the number of schools expected to be recognised by his Department in 2009; if a moratorium has been put on school reconditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12259/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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A total of 25 new primary schools and two new post-primary schools were recognised by my Department in 2008, and it is proposed to recognise a further two schools at post-primary level in 2009.

I should explain that a full review of the criteria and procedures for the recognition and establishment of new primary schools is currently being undertaken by the Commission on School Accommodation. It is expected that this will be completed and recommendations made to me by the Commission before the end of 2009. I am also giving consideration to a range of issues concerning the establishment of new schools at post-primary level. In the interim, it is not my intention to recognise new schools, except in areas where the increase in pupil numbers cannot be catered for by extending existing schools and where new schools are therefore warranted.

This means that new schools will not be established for reasons unrelated to demographic growth in areas where there is already sufficient school accommodation or where increases in pupil numbers can be catered for by extending existing school accommodation. While the review is ongoing, it is proposed that the Department will identify the areas where new schools are required based on detailed examination and analysis of the demographics of each area. These details will be circulated to all existing Patron Bodies and it will be open to those patrons to put themselves forward as patron for any such new school.

This review does not mean that there will be a complete cessation of the school building programme outside areas of rapid growth. In addition to the establishment of new schools in areas of rapid population growth, the normal building programme of modernising, replacing or extending existing schools will continue.