Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 June 2020
169. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will clarify the position of schools (details supplied) in the current capital programme; if both schools have secured capital funding; the position in the departmental approval process each project currently sits; the location for each of the permanent schools; and the arrangements in place for temporary classrooms for each school in 2020/2021. [13099/20]
View answerA planning application for the first school to which the Deputy refers was lodged with the relevant Local Authority on 20 May 2020 and a decision is awaited. The tendering process for the procurement of prefabricated accommodation for the project is currently ongoing.
It is envisaged that the school will open in suitable interim accommodation for the 2020/2021 academic year. In anticipation of any potential delays on the decision on the planning application due to the current Covid-19 situation, contingency accommodation will be made available for the school on the Citywest Education Campus on a short-term basis until such time as the project for its planned interim accommodation is completed.
Architectural planning has commenced for the permanent project for the school with site surveys underway. The permanent site for the project is located at Coolamber Drive, Rathcoole.
Regarding the second school referred to by the Deputy, I can confirm that my Department has approved temporary accommodation to cater for the school’s interim accommodation needs. The responsibility for the installation of this accommodation has been devolved to the Board of Management.
Similarly architectural planning has commenced for the permanent project for this school with site surveys also underway.
The new school will be located on the site adjacent to the current school site.
When planning is secured for these schools, they will proceed to tender and construction.
Officials of the Department have been in contact with the schools to advise of their current status.
