Schools Building Projects

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 June 2023

Tuesday, 13 June 2023

Questions (475)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

475. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education if her Department has considered the urgent need to secure additional accommodation for a school (details supplied) who have been informed that they must use their school library and GP hall to accommodate classes for the next academic year; if she is aware that this school will have 12 children in their ASD classes from September who need a space to interact; if she will ensure that the additional accommodation is provided immediately; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27066/23]

Written answers

Minister for Education

I can confirm to the Deputy, that my Department is in receipt of an application for capital funding, under the Additional School Accommodation (ASA) scheme, from the school in question.

The purpose of the ASA scheme is to ensure that essential mainstream and special education classroom accommodation is available to cater for pupils enrolled each year and where the need cannot be met by the school’s existing accommodation.

An ASA application from the school to which the Deputy refers is currently being assessed and when this is completed the school authority will be notified of the decision. My Department is very cognisant of the timeframe for the new school year and is working to advance matters as quickly as possible.

In addition, my Department is liaising with all schools that have accommodation requirements for the coming school year in relation to their contingency planning arrangements and any supports required for same.