Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 June 2023
188. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Education if there has been a shift in policy within the building and planning unit regarding the delivery of modular technology as a permanent solution to additional accommodation needs compared to the construction of a permanent structure; if she will provide clarity on any changes in policy; the rationale behind such shifts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26807/23]
View answerThe main focus of resources over the last decade and for the coming period is on provision of additional capacity to cater for increasing demographics particularly at post-primary level and for special education needs provision. The Deputy will appreciate that the immediate priority of my Department is continued strong delivery to support the operation of the school system with particular regard to planning ahead for the 2023/24 school year and beyond and also with particular regard to supporting special needs provision.
In order to meet these needs my Department has broadened its delivery streams and is utilizing Modern Methods of Construction, including Modular Accommodation, as well as traditional construction delivery methods. Modular accommodation has particular advantages in terms of overall timelines and also climate impact in that they do not generally have a reliance on fossil fuels.
In overall terms, it is important to have a range of delivery mechanisms for delivering school accommodation to support the current very strong and ambitious rollout of school building projects. This is particular relevant given the overall challenging construction sector market.
A number of factors are considered by my Department in determining the most appropriate construction method to meet a school’s accommodation requirements, including the timing and duration of that accommodation need, and other school-specific factors.
In support of the expedited delivery of critical school accommodation my Department has put in place a Modular Accommodation Framework. In addition, my Department has put new project manager support in place to assist schools with the delivery of this critical modular accommodation. All of these supports help ensure that the administrative burden for schools on procuring and delivering modular accommodation solutions is significantly eased.
The Modular Accommodation Framework solution:
- has significant benefits in terms of delivery timelines;
- minimises the impact of the project on the operation of the school;
- provides quality and sustainable accommodation that meets building regulation requirements and is Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) compliant; and
- facilitates climate proofing of the accommodation, given that the modular accommodation has the added benefit of utilising decarbonised heating sources which should also help with the school’s energy profile and costs.
My Department will continue to consider the specific needs of each school in assessing its accommodation requirements and in determining the appropriate solution, while working to support the achievement of Climate Action objectives.
