Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Nov 1997

Vol. 483 No. 3

Written Answers. - Schools Capital Programme.

Paul McGrath

Question:

387 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on whether a priority listing system, agreed between the education partners and his Department, for capital expenditure on primary and second level schools should be established; and if he will initiate the necessary procedures to have this system introduced. [20422/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

My Department is at present actively considering the development of a points-based system which would be designed, taking all relevant factors into consideration, to rank school building projects in order of priority for capital funding. The system would apply to both primary and post-primary capital projects.

I have already discussed the matter with some teacher and parent organisations and their response has been positive. However, before any such system is put in place, there will be full and continued consultation with all the education partners.