Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 Mar 2002

Vol. 551 No. 4

Written Answers. - Schools Building Projects.

Denis Naughten

Question:

240 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will approve funding for St. Mary's national school, Knockcroghery, County Roscommon; his plans to approve funding for refurbishment or the construction of a new school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10794/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

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 accommodation in primary schools. This is almost four times the previous Government's investment in 1997.

Due to 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.

My Department expects to be in a position during this year to give detailed consideration to an application from St. Mary's National School, Knockcroghery, County Roscommon for improved accommodation as part of the Government's expanded building programme.