Education and Training Boards

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 February 2018

Tuesday, 6 February 2018

Ceisteanna (179, 181)

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

179. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the head office of the Louth and Meath Education and Training Board or LMETB will be based in Drogheda, County Louth; the reason for the delay in the development of the head office facility in Drogheda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5382/18]

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

181. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the amount spent since 2013 on the design team, planning process, tendering process and all surveys related to the construction of a new LMETB head office in Drogheda; the reason construction has not commenced on the new head office in view of the fact the board was cleared to commence construction over one year ago; if officials in the planning and building unit are actively supporting the move to commence construction; when construction will commence; the timeframe for completion; if the funds allocated to LMETB for the construction of this project will remain committed to the head office project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5384/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

As the Deputy may be aware, the project to which she refers has been devolved for delivery to the local Education and Training Board (LMETB).

The project has been delayed mainly due to design issues. Having tendered for the project, the need for additional security features for the proposed building became apparent. These required a change in brief with the consequent design alterations. The project is currently at stage 2 B of the architectural planning process and a revised stage 2 B cost plan, to include the additional works, was recently submitted to my Department for consideration.

To date €244,841 has been spent on Design Team Fees, Planning fees, DAC fees and surveys for the project.

My Department is currently reviewing its programme for capital expenditure in 2018 and 2019. The progression of building projects, including the new HQ for LMETB, will be considered in that context.