Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2023
717. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Education if she will provide assurances that new building works for a school (details supplied) will proceed as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13201/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department’s Planning and Building Unit is currently assessing its work programme and priorities for 2023 in the context of overall requirements and available funding.
Our most immediate priorities are to cater for September 2023 requirements.
We are engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform in relation to capital funding pressures in order to continue to be able to adequately support the operation of the school system with rollout of school building projects to tender and construction in 2023 and minimise project delays to the greatest extent possible.
This includes the major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy, due to proceed to tender.
Prior to the major project being progressed to tender, an enabling works is required to underground ESB cables at the site for the new school. These works are to be carried out in the near future, in conjunction with ESBN Ireland and the Local Authority.
I want to reassure the Deputy and the relevant school communities that school building projects that are currently on hold due to capital funding pressures will be progressed and delivered – it is a question of timing.
The Department will update the School Authorities when there is further clarity on the progression of the major project.
