Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 October 2012
253. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has taken any decisions on project progression in the school building programme that did not accord with recommendations made to him by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43308/12]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the Five Year construction plan that I announced in March last lists individual major school projects that it is anticipated will proceed to construction over the duration of the plan. The approach adopted by my Department prioritises new school building projects as well as major extensions in areas where significant demographic need has been established. School building projects in architectural planning were also considered by my Department in the context of that programme, taking into account the funding available, the availability of sites in the case of new schools and when projects are technically ready to proceed to tender and construction. The individual school projects to be included in the Plan were recommended by my Department, and I approved the Plan in accordance with their recommendations.
