Vol. 553 No. 2
262 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for an extension to the premises of a school (details supplied) in County Wexford; the timeframe for the various stages of this project; the likely commencement date of building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13015/02]
An application has recently been received from the management authorities of the school referred to by the Deputy in respect of an extension and refurbishment works. In order to determine the school's accommodation requirements, a projection of long-term enrolment is being prepared by my Department, taking account of all relevant factors, including demographic trends in the area. The projection will be completed shortly and the details will be sent to the school management authorities for their observations. On receipt of the school's observations, a definitive projection of long-term enrolment will be forwarded to the post-primary building unit, which will then decide how best to provide the accommodation required.
263 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science when a design team will be appointed in relation to the building project approved for Ballyoughter national school, Gorey, County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13016/02]
My Department has an extensive primary school building programme under way at present and this includes a large number of projects at various stages of architectural planning. Decisions on additional projects proceeding to architectural planning are taken in light of the annual allocation for capital projects, the finan cial commitments to be met and the priority to be afforded to individual projects. The programme for 2002 is in place and the schools concerned have been notified.
Later this year, when a financial allocation has been made for the primary school building programme in the 2003 Estimates, I will be framing a further comprehensive programme of works and this will involve putting more projects into architectural planning. The needs of the school in question will be considered at that time.
It is my intention to bring greater transparency to the operation of the school building programme and I intend to publish the programme annually. I am also anxious to build a multi-annual dimension into the published programme so that schools will have an indication of the expected time-lines relating to their project.
264 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to building works which need to be carried out at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13017/02]
My Department is considering various options in regard to the provision of improved accommodation for the school referred to by the Deputy. The school authorities will be kept informed of developments.
