Gerry Reynolds
Question:403 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will sanction funding for the provision of a new primary school (details supplied) in Sligo in 2002. [4206/02]
Written Answers. - Schools Building Projects.
The allocation for primary buildings in 2002 is €153.6 million, which is a record level of funding and demonstrates this Government's commitment to improving the accommodation situation in primary schools. This is almost four times the previous Government's investment in 1997.
Because of the greatly increased level of activity in the 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.
A building project at the school referred to by the Deputy is included as part of the Government's programme and is currently in the early stages of architectural planning. The design team's report and relevant drawings are currently being examined and my Department will be in touch with the school authorities as soon as possible.