451 Ms Fox asked the Minister for Education and Science if she intends to grant formal recognition to a school (details supplied) in view of the fact that 18 months have elapsed since it applied; when this formal recognition will be granted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39060/05]

I can confirm to the Deputy that the school planning section of my Department is in receipt of an application to establish a new post-primary school in the area to which she refers. A consultation process with existing schools was recently completed. On the basis of the outcome of that process and an assessment of all other relevant factors, the school planning section hopes to be able to take a decision in the matter shortly.