asked the Minister for Education if she is aware of the extremely inadequate accommodation and conditions existing at a national school (details supplied) in County Westmeath; the time-scale for the proposed extension; and what it will entail.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Westmeath School Extension.
13.
I am aware of the urgent need for additional accommodation at the national school referred to by the Deputy and every effort will be made to ensure that the planning of the extension proceeds as quickly as possible.
It is understood from the Commissioners of Public Works that a revised sketch scheme providing for five instead of three classrooms in the proposed extension to this school has been prepared and will be forwarded very shortly to my Department for approval.
At present my Department are considering representations from the school chairman regarding the local contribution in this case and a grant will be sanctioned when agreement is reached on this matter.
At this stage of planning, it is not possible to say when building of the extension will commence.
Is the Minister aware that originally a smaller extension was planned for this school and that the board of management, the teachers, parents and pupils were very happy with that arrangement? Is he also aware that further projected needs of the area were discussed and it was decided to build a larger school. Some people feel that the revised arrangements are being used as a reason for not providing finance in the current year for this school. Is it quite definite that this extension will go ahead? Can the Minister give me any time-scale, bearing in mind the fact that the teachers are teaching in a classroom not much larger than a large cupboard?
I can give an assurance to the Deputy that this building will proceed. As I have said, it is necessary to get agreement on the local contribution. This is in accordance with normal procedure. The change from three to five rooms is an indication of the Department's intention to go ahead as quickly as possible. It is also necessary to plan for the educational needs of the area. Following the report of the inspectors it was decided that there should be five classrooms instead of three. If the local reverend manager will agree to the contribution which is being made by the Department, the next step will be to obtain planning permission from the local authority. Preparation of a detailed design including working drawings and bills of quantities, and the invitation and examination of tenders are the next steps. I cannot give the Deputy a clear indication as to when work will commence. I can give an assurance that there will be no undue delay in my Department.
I am glad to hear that commitment. Might I point out——
A question, Deputy, please.
Is the Minister aware that planning permission has been applied for to Westmeath County Council and is being considered? I understand there will be no undue delay on the part of the local authority of which I am a member. I will see to it that there is no delay.
That is not a question.
Will the Minister see to it that there is no delay in his Department?
The Deputy might talk to the chairman of the local board of management.
That is another matter.