Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 September 2020
138. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Education her plans to extend facilities at a school (details supplied); if additional accommodation will include a PE hall and library; if consideration will be given to renewing windows and doors as part of works undertaken; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27542/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe school to which the Deputy refers was granted funding under the Additional Accommodation Scheme 2020 to provide two mainstream classroom with en-suites. This project has been devolved for delivery to the school authority.
My Department is not in a position, at this point, to consider the request from the school for a PE Hall or library. The main focus of resources over the last decade and for the coming period is on provision of additional capacity to cater for increasing demographics. The second half of the NDP (from 2023 onwards) will see an increasing focus on the upgrade and refurbishment of the existing school stock. This will include a PE Hall build and modernisation programme to ensure that students in all post-primary schools have access to appropriate facilities to support PE provision.
Works to the existing doors and windows referred to are eligible to be considered for funding under future Summer Works Scheme. Alternatively, the school may use its minor works grant to carry out the works in full or on a phased basis as the grant permits if the school consider the works to be a priority.
