Schools Refurbishment

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2015

Tuesday, 10 February 2015

Questions (511)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

511. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the current need for infrastructural improvement in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; if her attention has been drawn to the need to upgrade and replace the school's ageing facilities and equipment; her views on the challenges facing teaching staff which this situation is causing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5726/15]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

As the Deputy may be aware, a building project for the school referred to, is currently being progressed within my Department's architectural planning process. I understand that the school's Design Team and School Authority are currently working on the Stage 2(a) report.

The school in question is one of a number of schools which it was not possible to include in the 5 Year construction programme. However the school project is being progressed to the final planning stages so that it will be well placed for further progression in anticipation of further funds being available to the Department.

In the interim, I can advise the Deputy that my Department allocates funding to schools for furniture and equipment which can be applied for on an ongoing basis in response to requirements. It is open to the school referred to by the Deputy to submit such an application for consideration.