asked the Minister for Education if he will make an up-to-date statement on the provision of a new national school at Ballygunner, Waterford; if he is aware of the urgent need for this school in view of the rapidly growing population in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Satisfactory title to the site for the proposed new national school at Ballygunner, County Waterford, has been established. When agreement has been reached regarding the amount of the local contribution a grant will be sanctioned and the preparation of working drawings may then be initiated.

When will work commence on the new school? Has provision been made in the Estimates for the building of the new school?

After the first stage, further stages of the project are preparation of working drawings and a bill of quantities leading up to the invitation of tenders.

Is it likely that the school will commence in 1983?

I should not like to speculate because it depends on how long it takes to prepare the various documents.

Is the Minister aware of the rapid growth of the population in the area and that the school should be built as a matter of urgency?

As far as the Department are concerned there will be no undue delay.

17.