Phil Hogan
Question:689 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science when work will commence on the extension of St. Patrick's National School, Clogh, Castlecomer, County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11280/02]
Written Answers. - Schools Refurbishment.
The allocation for primary buildings in 2002 is €153.6 million, which is a record level of funding and demonstrates the Government's commitment to improving accommodation 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 the 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 will give detailed consideration this year to an application from the authorities of St. Patrick's National School, Clogh, Castlecomer for grant-aid towards improved accommodation as part of the Government's expanded building programme.