Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 November 2015
493. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills for a detailed update on the procurement of a permanent site for a planned new school (details supplied) in County Cork and on the provision of temporary accommodation to be in place for the planned opening of the school in autumn 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39314/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy may be aware that I signed a Memorandum of Understanding between my Department and the County and City Managers' Association (CCMA) in 2012. This Memorandum of Understanding fosters increased levels of co-operation and formalises the Local Authorities' part in identifying and securing sites for educational use.
In that context, my Department has worked closely with Cork County Council towards acquiring a permanent site to meet the needs of the school to which the Deputy refers. The acquisition of the site in question is currently being progressed. Given the commercial sensitivities associated with land acquisitions generally I am not in a position to comment further at this time. I can, however, assure the Deputy that the acquisition of a new site for the school is a priority for my Department and the patron body Educate Together will be informed of the location for the school as soon as it is possible to do so.
The school will open in suitable temporary accommodation in September 2016, pending delivery of the permanent accommodation. Officials from my Department have informed the patron body, Educate Together, in relation to this.
