The Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and TD for Wicklow, Liz McManus, has expressed great concern at the fact that Education Minister Mary Hanafin has refused to recognise Gaelscoil na Lochanna in Blessington, Co Wicklow.

“There are 81 children enrolled and ready to attend the school. Temporary accommodation has been secured, and the school has raised money for a permanent site in the area.

“This decision is baffling to say the least. No Gaelscoil has ever failed and the school would provide a viable alternative to the existing schools serving the community in this area.

“The population of this area has jumped from 2,000 to 10,000 in just six years, and it continues to rise with more and more new houses being built all the time, so there will be shortage of children to fill places.

“The nearest Gael scoileanna are in Tallaght, Clondalkin and Naas. It’s completely unreasonable for the Minister to expect students to travel that far.

“I urge the Minister to do the sensible thing and reverse her decision. Families in Blessington deserve better.”