Vol. 507 No. 1
104 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps, if any, which will be taken to protect the school environment of Scoil Chaoimhín, Sráid Marlboro, Baile Átha Claith 1, while construction work is under way; the nature of the work; the timescale involved; the loss of play and amenity space involved; and if arrangements will be made to brief local public representatives on the implications of the work. [16228/99]
The construction works referred to by the Deputy relate to the development of the Marlborough Street site at the Department of Education and Science. The project is being planned, financed and managed by the Office of Public Works, which is the authority responsible for the design, construction and maintenance of property used by all Government Departments. The design for the project has been approved by the Planning Authority.
The project involves the erection of three self contained office blocks around a landscaped courtyard over the underground carpark. Also included in the project is the renovation, alteration and extension of the existing colonnade building and the expansion in area, by 30 per cent approximately, of the play space available to Scoil Chaoimhín.
The new office blocks will replace very unsatisfactory and sub-standard office accommodation including 30 year old dilapidated single storey prefabs.
It is my understanding from the Office of Public Works that tenders are currently being sought with a view to placing a contract at the end of July 1999. The contract period will be 18 months.
My Department and the Office of Public Works will make every effort to minimise any impact this development will have on the school environment of Scoil Chaoimhín. I have indicated that a working group consisting of the parents of Scoil Chaoimhín, the board of management and the Office of Public Works should be set up to deal with any problems that arise during the construction phase. I accept that there will be inconvenience for everybody on site during the building operation, but on completion the complex will be a safer, cleaner and healthier environment for the children of Scoil Chaoimhín.
Should local representatives want a further briefing on the projects I have asked my officials to facilitate them.
