Schools Building Projects

Wednesday, 29 July 2020

Ceisteanna (193)

Jennifer Whitmore

Ceist:

193. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 462 of 7 July 2020, if information is now available with regard to the impact of Covid-19 on the school building programme; the extent to which the programme will experience delays; the number of schools by county that will not have their school building programme finished in time for September 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19440/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

As the Deputy is aware, the construction sector has been re-opening on a gradual and phased basis since Monday 18th May. Whilst remobilisation has occurred, with construction activity ongoing, it is still too early to quantify exactly the impacts of COVID-19 on the school building programme more generally as a result of new working arrangements on a building sites. In relation to those school building projects due for completion for September 2020, my Department is closely monitoring progress. My Department continues to work closely with school authorities and patron bodies to ensure that contingency arrangements are in place where necessary if a school building project due for completion, is not completed in time for the start of the new school year as a result of delays caused by Covid. This work is on-going and it is envisaged that all issues will be addressed prior to the start of the new year.