Brian O'Shea
Ceist:678 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the pro posed amalgamated primary school in Cappoquin, County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8337/02]
Written Answers. - Schools Amalgamation.
The boards of management of Cappoquin girls national school and Cappoquin boys national school have indicated their agreement to amalgamate with effect from September 2002. However, the details have not yet been finalised.
The Deputy will be aware that 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 the accommodation situation 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.
I have recently authorised my Department to allow the building project in respect of Cappoquin girls national school and Cappoquin boys national school, to proceed to the preparation of tender documents and the invitation of tenders.
The planning and building unit of my Department will be in contact with the board of management of the school shortly.