Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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174. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 552 of 13 January 2021, if this constitutes a departure from previous policy intentions indicated by successive Ministers, with particular reference to the alternative use of the site and its pivotal location in terms of education, recreation, the swimming pool project and adjacent primary school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3028/21]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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Further to the Parliamentary Question referred to by the Deputy (No. 552 of 13 January 2021), the procedure which applies in respect of such matters does not constitute a departure from previous policy intentions indicated by successive Ministers. The property in question is owned by Kildare & Wicklow Education Training Board (KWETB). Under the Education and Training Act 2013, any decision which impacts on the use of ETB property must be considered by the Board of the ETB in the first instance. Under the governance procedures in place an ETB must also obtain my approval as Minister for Education if a decision taken may lead to the disposal or leasing of ETB property. In considering such an application my Department has regard to current and future educational requirements and demographic trends in the area.

My Department understands that KWETB has received an application for access and use of facilities from the adjacent primary school. This will be considered by the Board of the ETB. In the interim the ETB is in contact with the primary school. Queries in relation to any arrangements regarding the property concerned should be directed to KWETB.