Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 January 2014
279. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number and location of applications for new schools from school authorities throughout County Kildare awaiting sanction in his Department, at primary and second level; when he expects them to proceed; the extent to which the requirements as set out by the various school authorities are being met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2920/14]
View answer280. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number and locations of applications for extension, improvement or upgrading works in respect of primary and second level schools throughout County Kildare awaiting sanction in his Department; the number of school places likely to be affected; when he expects such applications to be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2921/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 279 and 280 together. The 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. The Deputy will be aware that the five year construction plan, that I announced on 9 March 2012, outlines the major school projects that will commence construction over the duration of the plan. The primary aim at the core of the five year plan is focussed on meeting demographic demands to ensure that every child will have access to a physical school place and that our school system is in a position to cope with increasing pupil numbers.
Given the need to meet demographic growth, the delivery of new schools, together with extension projects, to meet future demand will be the main focus of the Department's budget for the coming years. In this context, it is not possible to indicate at this point when individual building projects will be progressed. My Department will however consider applications by schools for funding for additional classrooms where an immediate enrolment need is arising. I wish to also advise the Deputy that commensurate with the level of funding available for the Summer Works Scheme, applications are currently being assessed on a top down basis in accordance with the prioritisation criteria outlined in the governing circular letter for the scheme. This circular letter (59/2013) is available on my Department's website www.education.ie. It is my intention to publish a list of successful applicants in early 2014.
