412 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has received an application for funding for the upgrading and extension of buildings and facilities at St. Fursey's national school, Haggardstown, Dundalk, County Louth; if he will give sanction to the application; if so, the subjects covered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4237/02]

The allocation for primary buildings in 2002 is €153.6 million, which is a record level of funding and demonstrates this Government's commitment to improving accommodation in primary schools. This is almost four times the previous Government's investment in 1997.

413 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will approve a two-room extension, including a science room and a technology room, at Castleisland community school, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4238/02]

My Department has received an application for additional facilities from Castleisland community college. The college is one of three post primary education providers in the Castleisland catchment area. Similar applications have also been received from the other two post-primary schools in the area.

As a result of these applications, and in view of the projected long-term decline in enrolments in all the schools concerned, my Department decided to examine the scope for rationalising post-primary education provision in the centre and has been in correspondence with the three school authorities in this regard.

The issue of rationalisation is under consideration at present and decisions on the applications for capital grant aid, from all three schools, will be taken in this context.

My officials will be in further contact with all the school authorities concerned before any final decisions are taken.