Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 Apr 1997

Vol. 478 No. 2

Written Answers. - College Accommodation.

Liam Aylward

Question:

118 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education her views on whether the increasing use of portacabins for instruction at Carlow Regional Technical College is unacceptable; and the plans, if any, she has to rectify this situation. [10893/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach):

As part of the overall strategic capital development programme for the third level sector, proposals for upgrading all teaching facilities, are being formulated in consultation with college authorities for implementation on a rolling basis and within the framework of available funding resources. This programme is designed to ensure that students are provided with appropriate and safe working environments.

In the case of Carlow regional technical college, my Department recently approved the award of a contract by the college authorities for phase one of infrastructure and enabling works for a major extension to the college. These works include improved roads and carparking, improved drainage, upgrading the electricity supply and providing a new main entrance.

In addition, consultants appointed by the college, are preparing tender documents for three projects including a learning resource centre, a catering and services building and modifications to the existing buildings; all to be implemented on a phased basis.

A sum of £4 million has been set aside and remains available under the National Development Plan 1994 to 1999 in respect of these capital developments. The programme is also aimed at replacing the portacabins which the college recently acquired. It is fully recognised that these were only provided to overcome certain accommodation problems that needed to be rectified as a matter of urgency.