Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 October 2012
264. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which he expects to be in a position to replace temporary prefabricated structures and facilities throughout the country in the coming year; if he is satisfied that the programme to date is likely to achieve its objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43368/12]
View answer269. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the total number of primary and second level pupils or students currently accommodated in temporary or prefabricated accommodation; the extent to which the programme to replace such facilities particularly those that have remained in situ for a number of years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43373/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 264 and 269 together.
My Department does not hold information on the numbers of pupils in individual schools who currently occupy temporary accommodation; this depends on the organisation of class groups by schools within available accommodation and may vary from year to year. Local school managements are responsible for organising their class numbers, year on year, to achieve the optimum local efficiencies. In March of this year I announced a new initiative to replace rented prefabs in both primary and post-primary schools. Over 170 schools have been approved to replace rented prefabs with permanent accommodation. A total of €41.8 million has been allocated for this initiative which will result in approximately 6,000 pupils moving from prefabs into permanent classrooms and resource rooms when building works are completed in all schools.
