Vol. 547 No. 4
208 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding proposals submitted by St. Kevin's College, Dunlavin, County Wicklow for additional accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3706/02]
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 3 in architectural planning. This submission is being examined by the staff in my Department. When this analysis is completed, progression to stage 4 (bill of quantities) will be authorised as soon as possible under the expanded building programme.
209 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding proposals submitted by St. Mary's College, Blessington County Wicklow for additional accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3707/02]
The application referred to by the Deputy is being examined in the planning and building unit of my Department. As part of this process, all relevant factors, including enrolment and demographic trends in the area, are being considered. A decision on the matter will be notified to the school authorities as soon as possible.
