School Accommodation Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 December 2015

Thursday, 17 December 2015

Questions (591)

Michael McGrath

Question:

591. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she is aware of the accommodation situation facing a school (details supplied) in County Cork for the 2016-2017 school year; the steps she is taking to ensure that adequate accommodation of the appropriate standard will be in place in good time; if the forward planning section of her Department will liaise with the school with regard to the available options; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46335/15]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

My Department officials have been progressing the accommodation requirements of the school to which the Deputy refers on an ongoing basis. The school is located in rented pre-fab accommodation on land rented by the Department for this purpose in Douglas, Cork. Many factors impact on the delivery of suitable school accommodation, including the availability of suitable options in an appropriate location, planning requirements and technical requirements. In this regard, my officials have been, and continue to be, in contact with the relevant parties, including the school authorities, in relation to the school's accommodation needs. The main avenue for interaction in such matters is with the school management body, in this case Educate Together.

My Department officials are exploring options for temporary accommodation for the growing school for September 2016 and beyond and have indicated to the school authorities that if the school have proposals in this regard, that these will be given due consideration by my Department, when received.