Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2013
279. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a specific policy decision has been taken to give absolute priority to new build primary and secondary schools over the extension of existing schools; if this is the case, when this decision was taken; if there are any exceptions to this policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22747/13]
View answerThe current status of all projects, may be viewed on my Department's website at www.education.ie and this will be updated regularly throughout the year.
In determining projects that were announced to proceed to construction during the 5 Year Plan, both new school building projects as well as major extensions to existing schools have been prioritised on the basis of meeting demographic needs in areas where such needs have been identified.
I also wish to advise the Deputy that where an immediate enrolment need in an area has been identified e.g. the appointment of an additional teacher and where school's existing accommodation cannot provide for this growth, my Department will be prepared to consider applications by schools for capital funding for additional classrooms mainly on a devolved basis.
In addition, under my Department's Prefab Replacement Initiative announced in March 2012, over 170 schools have been approved to replace their rented prefab accommodation with permanent accommodation. In excess of €42 million has been allocated for this initiative of which €15.6 million was paid in 2012. This funding is being provided to schools to replace rented prefabs that are currently providing mainstream classroom and resource rooms for an estimated 6,000 pupils. In total, 286 mainstream classrooms currently in rented prefabs will receive permanent buildings, details of which are also available on my Department's website.
