Michael Ring
Ceist:513 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of stages in processing applications by schools for grant aid to carry out renovations or extensions. [27705/01]
Written Answers. - Schools Building Programmes.
My Department's design team procedures apply in every case where the architectural planning of a project requires the engagement of a full design team to address the architectural, structural, services and cost control aspects of the proposal.
These procedures consist of nine stages. The design and planning of the project are covered by stages 1 to 5, during which the project is developed from the assessment of site suitability, through the detailed design, including the obtaining of planning permission, to the point where detailed bills of quantities are prepared.
At stage 6, tenders are sought in line with public procurement procedures and subsequently a tender report is prepared and examined. Assuming that the outcome of the tender process is acceptable in terms of procurement procedures, providing value for money and that funds are available to meet construction costs a construction contract is placed at that stage and the construction of the project begins.
Stages 7 to 9 cover post contract cost control throughout the construction period, construction and practical completion of the building, including hand over of the building to the proposed occupiers and the completion of the cost analysis in the form of the final account, ensuring that cost control was maintained.
Question No. 514 answered with Question No. 511.