Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 214 and 215 together.

My Department is currently reviewing the demographic data for the school planning area referred to by the Deputy as part of the overall demographic analyses of all school planning areas nationwide.  My Department also has been in direct contact with a number of primary schools in the area in respect of their junior infant capacity. In that regard it is understood that at least one school is undersubscribed and has expressed a willingness to enrol further junior infants in September 2017, if necessary.  As the Deputy will appreciate, it is important that school size is monitored and that a balance is preserved among all schools in school planning areas to ensure that one school is not expanding at the expense or the viability of another school.

My Department will continue to monitor the position closely. While the situation may result in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice, the Deputy will appreciate that my Department's main responsibility is to ensure that the existing schools can between them cater for the demand for Junior Infant places in September 2017.