Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 March 2019
147. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills when it is proposed to erect two new classrooms at a school (details supplied); if the immediate payment of a grant towards the cost of having the existing rooms at the school renovated will be arranged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12602/19]
View answerThe Deputy may be aware that, in April, 2015, my Department approved an all-in devolved grant for the provision of 2 mainstream classrooms and a WC for assisted users for the school to which he refers.
However, the project proceeded to tender on the basis of works that were not approved for funding. The Board of Management of the school was advised that it was required to revert to the original approved works. The Board has agreed to progress the project accordingly.
The issue referred to by the Deputy is currently being reviewed by my Department. This review is taking longer than would normally be the case due to the complexities of the issues involved.
However, I can assure the Deputy that this assessment is close to finalisation. As soon as it is complete, my Department will be in direct contact with the school authority in order to progress the project as set out in the original approval issued in April 2015.
The Deputy also refers to an application for funding under my Department's Emergency Works Scheme for flooring works at the school which was submitted by the School Authority. However, as the scope of the works were outside the terms of the scheme, the application was refused and the school was advised that the correct mechanism for delivery of works of this nature is the Summer Works Scheme.
