Vol. 495 No. 6
28 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will grant approval to Ballygunner National School, Ballygunner, Waterford, to seek tenders for the proposed new extension to the school in view of the large number of children seeking entry in September 1999. [19936/98]
Architectural planning for the new extension at Ballygunner is being handled by the school's own consultant architect. In the case of all capital projects involving major expenditure of public funds, my Department's architectural service approves the detailed design and the tender documentation in order to ensure that all aspects of a design are finalised satisfactorily. This process avoids delays and increased costs later. The school manager has been requested to submit the detailed design and tender documentation in respect of the extension at Ballygunner National School. Provided the design complies with the building regulations, my Department will be in a position to expedite consideration of the documentation as soon as it is received. I will then take a decision on tender invitation in light of available finance at that time and other competing priorities.
