Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 May 2026
114. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will sanction an additional junior infants class at a school (details supplied) for September 2026 to meet the local demand for Irish medium education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40770/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe population of Dunshaughlin has doubled over the last ten years and, as a result, the demand for school places has increased significantly. This increase in demand had been planned for with the establishment of new primary and post primary schools, as well as capital projects at the existing post primary school and two primary schools in the town. The capital project to develop a new school campus for Dunshaughlin Community National School and Colaiste Rioga is currently on site and due for completion next year.
Junior Infant demand in the town for 2025 and 2026 was larger than projected, resulting in additional junior infant classes being established at Dunshaughlin CNS to cater for demand.
The Gaelscoil in Dunshaughlin, Scoil na Rithe, has proven very popular since its establishment and demand has grown in recent years as the population of the town has increased. The enrolment in Scoil na Rithe represents over 20% of the total primary school going population of Dunshaughlin town and 13% of the school going population of the School Planning Area.
The Board of Management of Scoil na Rithe have recently expressed a desire to open a second junior infant class, for September 2026. However, the school has confirmed that there is no suitable space available within the existing building to accommodate this class for the academic year.
Within the context of rapidly growing population and peak school place demands, the department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking school places in the area.
The department encourages parents who have not yet secured a place to consider applying to schools with available junior infant capacity in the area.
Scoil na Rithe has a capital project to increase its capacity further in the coming years. The department remains fully committed to supporting the delivery of this project and is continuing to engage with schools and stakeholders, while also reviewing medium-term capacity needs in the area in light of demographic trends.
