44 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he has received a request from interested persons in Celbridge, County Kildare, for the purchase or lease of property owned by his Department in the area and which might be seen as a suitable site for a school; if he will outline whether he intends to respond favourably to the request in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

A request on the lines referred to in the question has been received by my Department regarding the former FCA Hall, Celbridge, County Kildare. The premises, which are owned by my Department, have been leased for a term of 21 years but acceptance of the surrender of the lease is at present being examined. When the necessary formalities have been completed, the request will be considered further.