Schools Building Projects

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 October 2011

Tuesday, 25 October 2011

Questions (176)

Denis Naughten

Question:

191 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the technical guidance document TGD-008 amended last March which specifically prohibits qualified and competent professionals other than architects to supervise school repairs-building works exceeding €200,000 when there is not a substantive element of architectural design; his views that it is appropriate to exclude professionals who have been approved by the Department to bring developments to the construction stage; his reason for this restriction; if he has evaluated the additional costs due to a reduction in competition as a result of this restriction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31441/11]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Ruairí Quinn)

Technical Guidance Document (TGD) 008 (Engaging Professional Consultants for Small Works)" which is available on my Department's website is one of a large suite of guidance documents published by my Department. This particular document is provided to assist school authorities with the engagement of consultants and to ensure that any consultants employed are competent and qualified in the appropriate disciplines to carry out the works that they are appointed to do. This document also provides for the appointment of other consultants depending on the nature of the works to be grant aided. TGD 008 provide a balanced approach by allowing access for smaller firms while also ensuring that appropriate consultants are engaged for small works. I do not propose to make any changes.