asked the Minister for Education the present position regarding proposed central schools where planning is at an advanced stage in areas where there are two-teacher schools which would consequently be closed and where parents of the pupils now want these schools retained; and if he will make a statement regarding his policy on this matter.

I said in my statement of 7th February last that where amalgamation had already been agreed on and planning of the new central school had reached an advanced stage, there could be no going back and that such cases would proceed. That is my general policy in this regard, but I am prepared to examine, on its merits, any case in which unusual circumstances apply which might suggest that a departure from that general policy would be warranted.

Is the Minister aware that this statement has caused a great deal of confusion in areas where people were anxious to keep their two-teacher schools but because grants were not available for repairs it was found necessary to have central schools built? Would he try to ensure that this confusion is cleared up and that people who want to hold on to two-teacher schools, despite the fact that plans are at an advanced stage, will be facilitated?

The Deputy will appreciate that we cannot reopen schools which have already been closed. A line must be drawn somewhere. The general policy adopted is that where the site has been purchased and the planning has gone beyond the sketch plan stage, the amalgamation goes ahead. Before that stage is reached, any move towards amalgamation can be looked at again.

The Minister will agree that this applies to the newer central schools. What is the position of a school where a decision has been taken to extend it by adding extra rooms but where very little work has been done?

I do not see how that arises. Does the Deputy mean where an existing two-teacher school is being extended?

Yes.

That would not be the subject of amalgamation.

It is. They are thinking of bringing in pupils from another school.

If the Deputy gives me details of that I will have a look at it.

I will do that.