Schools Building Projects

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022

Tuesday, 14 June 2022

Ceisteanna (969)

Gary Gannon

Ceist:

969. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Education if he will outline the way principals and boards of management of schools can avail of mediation support where there are issues relating to the build of an extension on school grounds; the issues that lie between the consultant and the builder where it appears the relationship has almost completely broken down; if her Department provides mediation services to look to ensure projects are completed on budget within reason and on time; and if he will outline all other supports available to principals and boards of management of schools who might find themselves in such a situation and the way they can access such supports? [29385/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education

My Department does not provide mediation services for School Authorities. However, there are dispute resolution measures within the Public Works Contracts for dealing with Contractors. In many cases, the schools Insurance Policy can provide assistance and advice for the school in dealing with disputes. Schools rely on the professionalism of their appointed design team consultants to also assist.

Every school with a school building project has a contact name and number of an official in my Department dealing with that project. It is open to the School Authority to contact this official directly for further advise on their individual project.