Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021
925. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Education if her Department will categorise the construction of a school site (details supplied) as essential under level 5 restrictions given the commitment to commence construction in quarter 1 of 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15403/21]
View answerThe building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is being delivered under my Department’s Design and Build Programme.
My Department is currently in the process of establishing a Framework of Design and Build Contractors to which Design and Build projects can be tendered. The tender process to establish the new Framework including the school referred to by the Deputy, is expected to be concluded shortly. My Department has confirmed that as provided for under S.I. No. 4 of 2021, the construction or development of essential educational facilities at primary and post-primary level, including school building projects, which will provide additional capacity for students or involve essential maintenance or refurbishment works in support of the continued provision of education may continue. If necessary, when the project for the school referred to by the Deputy is due to commence on site, this school building project may be so designated.
My Department will keep the school authority and its Patron Body updated as the project progresses to completion of the tender process and into the construction stage.
