Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 May 2021
494. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education if there are plans in place for the development of a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26158/21]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, the acquisition of a suitable site to provide new school accommodation has proved to be extremely challenging to date. My Department is working with Donegal County Council under the Memorandum of Understanding for the acquisition of school sites. A preferred site has been identified.
Donegal County Council commenced CPO proceedings to acquire a 10 acre site in Buncrana, on behalf of the Minister of Education, on 2nd December 2020.
Two objections to the CPO were received before the deadline of 19th January 2021. The objections were lodged by the owners of the subject land as confirmed by An Bord Pleanala on 3rd February 2021. An oral hearing was held virtually on 14th April to address the objections. We currently await An Bord Pleanála’s decision.
The priority for both my Department and Donegal County Council is to secure a suitable site for the school at the earliest possible date so that the project can progress to design and securing planning permission.
