Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 June 2013
264. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will outline all new school buildings, school extensions and upgrades and investments planned for schools in an area (details supplied) in County Wicklow; the projected timeline for completion of these projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30282/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that the Five Year Construction Plan, that I announced on 9 March 2012, outlines the major school projects that will commence construction over the duration of the Plan. The primary aim at the core of the Plan is focused on meeting demographic demands to ensure that every child will have access to a physical school place and that our school system is in a position to cope with increasing pupil numbers. I also wish to advise the Deputy that due to additional funding made available for the schools' building programme as part of the Government's "Investing in Infrastructure & Jobs" package announced recently, school projects that were not contained in the 5 year programme but have completed extensive architectural planning are now being progressed to tender and construction. In relation to the area in County Wicklow, referred to by the Deputy, the following school projects are being progressed; St. Philomena's National School and Coláiste Ráithín - new school buildings under a Public Private Partnership arrangement. The projects are due to be completed by the end of 2016. St. Brendan's College - replacement school building - the project is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. My Department will shortly be in contact with the school authorities in relation to progressing the project to tender and construction.
Details of all works funded under my Department's Additional Accommodation, Prefab Replacement and Emergency Works Schemes, including works in schools in Co. Wicklow, are available on my Department Website and this is updated on a regular basis.
