Written answers

Thursday, 29 May 2014

Department of Education and Skills

School Enrolments

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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67. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the expected number of children likely to need accommodation at primary and second level annually over the next ten years; the extent to which it has been found possible to plan the accommodation and educational requirements arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23622/14]

Photo of Ruairi QuinnRuairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The Forward Planning Section of my Department uses a Geographical Information System (GIS) to analyse demographic data in order to determine the areas where additional school accommodation may be required. A variety of sources are used in this analysis, including census data, school enrolment data, and child benefit data obtained from the Department of Social Protection. Total pupil enrolment at primary school level is expected to increase by approximately 70,000 up to 2019. At post-primary level, total pupil enrolment is expected to increase by approximately 35,000 over the same period, and continuing increases at this level are expected up until 2026 at least.

In June 2011, I announced the provision of 20 new primary schools and some 20 new post-primary schools up to 2017 to meet demographic need. Some of these schools have commenced operation with the remainder will be commencing by 2016. In addition, the delivery of major school projects to meet significant demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The Five Year Plan is focused on meeting those demographic needs and sets out the school projects that are planned to proceed to construction over the duration of the Plan. My Department will also consider applications from schools for funding for additional classrooms where an immediate enrolment need is arising.

My Department continues to analyse demographic trends and to monitor enrolments in all areas to determine the level of additional school provision which will be required into the future and to ensure that this is provided in a timely manner.

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