The school building project in the area referred to by the Deputy was one which I announced to commence architectural design in 2005. A full Design Team has been appointed and the project is at an early stage of Architectural Planning.
The design and planning of a building project is 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. The project will be allowed to progress up to and including Stage 5 Bill of Quantities. This is the final stage before the invitation of tenders.
The Planning Authority at Meath County Council has commenced preparation of the Local Area Plan for the area and this will determine the location of the proposed school building on the site. When this matter is completed my Department will progress this project further.
A decision on which school building projects will advance to tender and construction will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.