The Department of Education is paying a teacher to stay on in a school in Co Kerry, despite the school having no pupils.
In recent years, due to rural depopulation, student numbers have seen a steady decline at Clonkeen National School near Killarney.
The school was founded 51 years ago and at its height, it had up to 40 pupils.
In September no pupils enrolled in Clonkeen National School near Killarney - but the remaining teacher was still awaiting a decision from the Department of Education regarding the future of the school.
In a statement this evening, the Department of Education said: "As a result of demographic changes in the area, demand no longer exists to support the viability of the school.
"Following the decision to close the school, the principal teacher will be redeployed to another neighbouring school following completion of administrative work associated with the school's closure."
Sinn Féin's Education Spokesperson Seán Crowe described the situation as "bizarre" and a waste of resources.
He said he intends to raise the matter with the minister.
