HC Deb 23 November 1987 vol 123 c26W
Mr. Jim Marshall

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to ensure adequate provision for community and educational facilities in the redevelopment of the Divis flats complex in Belfast.

Dr. Mawhinney

A long-term development plan for the rationalisation and improvement of primary school facilities in the Divis flats area has been approved by the Department of Education involving the amalgamation and replacement of St. Finian's boys' and St. Vincent's girls' primary schools by a new co-educational primary school; the amalgamation of St. Joseph's boys' and girls' primary schools, Slate street, and the provision of improved facilities; and a review of the provision at St. Comgall's boys' and girls' primary schools, Divis street, in the light of demographic trends.

Additionally, one new 50-place nursery school was opened in November 1986 and a further one is planned.

The complex has adequate provision in terms of secondary school facilities and there are no plans to replace the existing Divis flats community centre.