Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 15 Apr 1997

Vol. 477 No. 5

Written Answers. - Schools Building Projects.

Willie O'Dea

Question:

204 Mr. O'Dea asked the Minister for Education the current position regarding the provision of new science laboratories at the Presentation School, Sexton Street, Limerick; and if she will expedite this process in view of the urgent necessity and the delay which has already occurred. [9676/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The application for the provision of science facilities at the Presentation School, Sexton Street, Limerick is currently at Stage 3, developed sketch scheme of the architectural planning process.

This project will be processed as quickly as possible through the remaining stages of architectural planning.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

205 Mr. E. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education if she has approved the capital allocation required for the acquisition of a site and the building of a new school (details supplied) in County Cork. [9677/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

A new vocational school to cater for 450 pupils is currently being planned for this area.

As the County Cork vocational education committee currently owns an appropriate site for the school, it is not necessary to make a capital allocation for further site acquisition.

A planning and briefing meeting for this project was held recently and County Cork vocational education committee was advised that it was in order for its design team to prepare a stage 2 submission — i.e. Outline Sketch Scheme. My Department now awaits receipt of these documents.

At this stage, it is not possible to indicate when the project will proceed to construction as this will depend on the availability of funding and the Department's other commitments and priorities. However, every effort is being made to have the planning of the new school completed as soon as possible with a view to being in a position to invite tenders as soon as funding is available.