Schools Building Projects

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 February 2022

Wednesday, 16 February 2022

Ceisteanna (144)

Michael Creed

Ceist:

144. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 131 of 1 February 2022 and 87 of 9 February 2022, and related press statement issued from her Department, if her Department has decided the location for the school (details supplied); her views on whether this relocation of an existing school onto the campus of another school is planning exempt as claimed in the recent press statement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8641/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education

A site visit took place on 31 January 2022 with the purpose of identifying on the ground the practical matters which need to be addressed to accommodate both schools.  This includes addressing the possibility of the provision of SEN facilities in both schools for the coming school year.  In considering available space on the campus of the other school site, this development can be considered exempt under the planning exemption introduced in March 2021 - Planning and Development (Exempted Development) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 114 of 2021) – School Buildings.

My Department officials have endeavoured to keep both school authorities informed and will continue to do so as the details of this option are developed.