Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:353 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science his priorities in regard to the school building programme in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31359/03]
Written Answers. - Schools Building Projects.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:359 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria he intends to use to select the primary or second level schools throughout the country which are in need of improvement in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31365/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 353 and 359 together.
The system of prioritisation that governs the selection of large scale capital projects to proceed through design stages and on to construction was set out in detail as part of the published 2003 capital programme. The first priority for any capital programme is the legally enforceable contractual commitments already entered into. The level of funding made available for all other elements of the 2004 school building programme will determine progress on individual projects.
Up to €387 million will be available for all elements of the school building programme in 2004. I intend to publish details of the programme this week. The programme will clarify progress to be made on individual projects in 2004.