Shane McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Question 127: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a school (details supplied) in County Meath [38159/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Forward Planning Section of my Department has carried out a study of the country to identify the areas where, due to demographic changes, there may be a requirement for significant additional accommodation in future years. Following this detailed analysis it appeared prudent to plan for the establishment of new schools to commence operation in September 2010 to meet increasing demand in certain identified areas. There was detailed consultation during 2009 with all patrons in relation to the areas under consideration.

There was a specific application for the establishment of a new gaelscoil in the area referred to by the Deputy. However, after detailed analysis of the increase in pupil numbers for September this year and of the capacity in existing schools it was not necessary to establish a new school to cater for the demographic increase. My Department was satisfied that the existing schools could cater for the projected increase in demographics in September 2010.

This situation in relation to the requirement for the additional school provision in the area will be reviewed for September 2011 in light of needs and consultation with the patron bodies.