Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2013
370. Deputy Charlie McConalogue 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. [32118/13]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that the Five Year Construction Plan, that I announced in March 2012, lists the individual school projects that are planned to proceed to construction over the duration of the Plan. The Plan priorities new school building projects as well as major extensions in areas where significant demographic need has been established so that our school system is in a position to cater for increasing pupil numbers. The Deputy will also be aware that due to additional funding made available for the schools' building programme as part of the Government's "Investing in Infrastructure & Jobs" package announced recently, school projects that were not contained in the 5 Year Plan but have completed extensive architectural planning are now being progressed to tender and construction. The individual school projects to be progressed within the 5 Year Plan and Investment package were recommended by my Department, and I approved these projects in accordance with the recommendations concerned.
