The government's plan to deliver 17 new schools next year has taken a blow, after Deputy Thomas Byrne revealed that no sites have yet been identified.

Thomas Byrne, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Education, urged Minister Richard Bruton to act on his plan after discovering the new information.

"New information which I have obtained shows that no site location has been identified for the 17 new schools that are due to open next year," said Deputy Byrne. "It seems highly unlikely that the Government will be able to deliver these schools on time considering site location is yet to take place. It suggested that Minister Bruton didn't put in the groundwork before rushing to make his announcement."

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It was recently announced by Minister Bruton that 42 new schools would be built in Ireland over the next four years. Deputy Bryne called this plan a "welcome development" because of the "increasing demand for school places due to demographic demand".

However, with the new information coming to light, Deputy Byrne has urged the government to make the plan a top priority.

"Minister Bruton needs to set out a detailed delivery plan for the 42 new schools that he has announced," he added. "They need to remain a top priority for the Government considering the huge pressure that the education system is already under with many children being taught in supersize classes."

(CM/MH)