Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 2 Nov 1999

Vol. 509 No. 6

Written Answers. - School Accommodation.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

642 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that 750 students are enrolled in Bridgetown vocational school, County Wexford which was built to accommodate 450 students; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that an extension to the school first mooted in late 1994 has not proceeded to planning permission stage; the reason for this inordinate delay; if he will arrange sanction for this project to planning permission stage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21835/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

My Department's building unit has recently given approval to County Wexford Vocational Education Committee to prepare the developed sketch scheme for an extension to the school of 1,772mf7>2 of additional accommodation to cater for its long-term requirements. Evidence of planning permission will be required when the developed sketch scheme is satisfactorily completed.

Delays in commencing architectural planning of this project were due to financial constraints at the time of the original application.