We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation

Castlebar school accommodation

Summary

Deputy Dillon raised the poor conditions facing Castlebar Educate Together National School, which is scattered across three campuses and lacks adequate space. The Minister said he was not familiar with the case but would raise it with the Education Minister.

Last June, I brought to the Dáil's attention a pressing issue concerning Castlebar Educate Together National School, which finds itself in a serious situation. It comprises 140 enrolled students, five teachers and one SNA. For the past eight years, the school has been operating out of Marsh House, a former town council building leased from Mayo County Council. The conditions are dire for an educational institution. The school is now scattered across three campuses, each with limited classroom space. The children are forced to play in a car park and in public areas, which, as the Minister will know, poses significant safety risks. Despite tireless efforts to engage with the Department of Education, the school's pleas have fallen on deaf ears, which is completely unacceptable. As a Government, we need to take immediate action to address Castlebar Educate Together National School's concerns and to secure the appropriate accommodation the school so desperately needs.

Comment on this

I am not familiar with the specific case of Castlebar Educate Together National School. I will raise the matter directly with the Minister for Education, Deputy Foley, and ask her to engage directly with the Deputy.

Comment on this