Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021
1003. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Education the status of the proposed new building for a school (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19163/21]
View answer1004. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Education the current stage of the construction process for a proposed new school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19164/21]
View answer1005. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Education if there is a proposed start-up date for a school (details supplied) in County Galway; if funding is in place for the construction; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19165/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1003 to 1005, inclusive, together.
The major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is included in my Department’s Construction Programme which is being delivered under the National Development Plan.
This project is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning - Stage 2(b) which includes the application for statutory approvals and the preparation of tender documents. Planning permission was secured for this project in 2011. In October 2016 an extension to planning was secured which expires in November, 2021. While planning permission is in place, there have been a number of delays associated with this project and it is now agreed between the relevant stakeholders that a new planning application will be necessary which will include a new public road layout and a new access to the school site.
A meeting between my Department, the school, and key stakeholders, including the schools Patron and Galway County Council, took place on 15th April, 2021 at the school's request, to discuss the progression of this project. Next steps have been agreed and the Design Team Leader will provide the school with an updated programme which will include a projected timeframe for the new planning application process.
A revised Stage 2(b) Report and a Stage 2(b) Addendum Report have been submitted to my Department for review. Upon review my officials will revert to the school and its Design Team with comments which should assist in the preparation of the new planning application.
My Department is committed to assisting the school to progress this project.
