Vol. 526 No. 3
410 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science when approval will be given and grant aid made available for the new gaelscoileanna in Ballinasloe, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26360/00]
Architectural planning for new school premises for Gaelscoil Uí Cheithearnaigh, Ballinasloe, County Galway,is already under way and is proceeding as quickly as possible having regard to the large number of school building projects on hand within my Department. It is not possible at this point to say when construction will commence. The school authorities will be notified of progress as it happens.
411 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the current position with regard to the new girls' secondary school in Ballinasloe, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26361/00]
Plans for a new girls' secondary school in Ballinasloe are progressing through architectural planning. A stage 4-5 submission, encompassing detailed design and bill of quantities, has been received in my Department and is currently under consideration. The question of proceeding to tender will be considered when the stage 4-5 submission has been fully examined.
412 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if he is in negotiations for a permanent site for a national school (details supplied) in County Mayo: when the site purchase will proceed; and when the construction of the new school will commence. [26394/00]
The property management section of the Office of Public Works is acting on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally and is currently exploring the possibility of acquiring a suitable site for the school referred to by the Deputy.
The Deputy will appreciate, therefore, that it would not be appropriate for my Department to indicate what discussions, if any, have taken place with landowners in regard to site purchase. The release of such information could prejudice the outcome of any negotiations that may be taking place.
As soon as a site has been acquired, my Department will be in contact with the school authorities.
