Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 September 2017
105. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Education and Skills if will address the delay in building a new purpose-built school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41122/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe brief for the school referred to by the Deputy is for a new three storey building of 5926m², containing 20 classrooms, Junior/Senior dining area, GP Hall, Library, Special Teacher rooms, Multi- Sensory, Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy rooms, nurse’s area, kitchen, ancillary storage and services.
In July of this year, the Stage 2b (Detailed Design) was approved, pending the completion of the process to carry out a Prequalification of Contractors. The pre-qualification process is necessary to create a shortlist of building contractors to ensure that there are a number of appropriate and suitable candidates who can tender for the construction contract.
The tender process, including the pre-qualification of contractors, normally takes between 4 to 6 months. My Department anticipates that this project will complete the tender process and go on site to commence construction in early 2018.
I can assure the Deputy that my Department will make every effort to expedite this process.
