Phil Hogan
Ceist:452 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will expedite funding for a school extension for Carigeen National School, County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5689/02]
Written Answers. - Schools Refurbishment.
The allocation for primary buildings in 2002 is €153.6 million, which is a record level of funding and demonstrates this Government's commitment to improving accommodation in primary schools. This is almost four times the previous Government's investment in 1997.
Because of the greatly increased level of activity in the primary buildings area since this Government came into office, there has been a substantial increase in the number of major and minor building projects in construction and this has given rise to a record level of building and refurbishment activity.
Carigeen National School, County Kilkenny is being extended and refurbished as part of the Government's programme and is currently in architectural planning. The project will continue to the preparation of tender documents and the invitation of tenders, as soon as possible, under the expanded building programme.
Pat Rabbitte
Ceist:453 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if approval will be given to an application from a school (details supplied) for an overhaul of the sanitary system, the construction of a general purpose room, and the provision of school office and storage room; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5705/02]
My Department's building unit has recently forwarded an application form to the management authorities of the school referred to by the Deputy. When the completed application form is returned the matter will be given further consideration.