asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the problem in respect of access to second-level education in the Kilcullen area of County Kildare in view of the fact that Newbridge College is withdrawing from the free secondary scheme; if he is further aware that the Cross and Passion Convent in Kilcullen is willing to become a co-educational school; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

My Department have approved the provision of additional accommodation in the Cross and Passion secondary school in Kilcullen to enable the school to enrol boys and arrangements have been made to commence the architectural planning of the required extension.

Does this mean that the wish of the convent authorities to become co-educational is being acceded to, and that this school will in future cater for second-level education for boys in the Kilcullen area and surrounding districts?

It will be co-educational.