Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
285. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education to provide an update on the progress of the planned additional classrooms for a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46431/23]
View answerI am pleased to advise that approval under the Additional School Accommodation scheme issued to the school in question for the provision of 1 x SEN modular class under my Department's Devolved SEN Reconfiguration and Modular Accommodation programme. This Modular Accommodation involves the use of Project Management supports which is designed to enable the accommodation to be provided as quickly as possible and help ease the administrative workload for school authorities in relation to the management and delivery of projects.
The use of the Department’s Modular Accommodation Framework also assists in ensuring lead in periods for procurement of modular accommodation are minimised to the greatest extent possible. To date, this has worked very well in the education sector and has seen delivery of large scale, high quality modular accommodation to meet the needs of children, particularly those with special educational needs.
Kerrigan Sheanan Newman Construction Consultants (KSN) has been appointed, from the Department’s Framework, to design and tender the project. This consultant is leading the project through the various stages of planning process and construction. The Department is working closely with the Project Management teams and the modular accommodation suppliers to ensure additional capacity for the schools sector is delivered as quickly as possible.
I have been advised that the building in question is substantially complete and the Project Management Company are collating the relevant paperwork required at present in order to meet all statutory requirements.
The School Authority has devolved responsibility for delivery of this project.
