Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Feb 2002

Vol. 547 No. 4

Written Answers. - Schools Building Projects.

Billy Timmins

Question:

207 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding an application for funding by Arklow Community College, Arklow for works to the college; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3705/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The allocation for post primary buildings in 2002 is €182.31 million, which is a record level of funding and demonstrates this Government's commitment to improving the accommodation situation in post primary schools. This is almost four times the previous Government's investment in 1997.

Because of the greatly increased level of investment in the post primary buildings area since this Government came into office, there has been a substantial increase in the number of major and minor building projects in construction and this has given rise to a record level of building and refurbishment activity.

The school to which the Deputy refers is to receive additional accommodation as part of the Government's programme and is currently at stage two in architectural planning. This submission is being examined by the staff in my Department. When this analysis is completed, progression to stage 3, developed sketch scheme, will be authorised as soon as possible under the expanded building programme.