Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
306. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Education if she has had communication from Tipperary ETB in relation to a possible greenfield site for a new school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40012/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that my Department has been in communication with Tipperary ETB in relation to additional accommodation at the school in question, including a proposal from the ETB that the needs of the school would be met by way of a new school building on a greenfield site.
My Department gave full consideration to the proposal and having considered all relevant factors, including the short-term accommodation pressures at the school, determined that the most appropriate solution is the provision of additional accommodation for the school at its current location. On foot of this a proposed brief for additional accommodation was issued to Tipperary ETB. This brief consisted of a significant amount of new general and specialist accommodation which would provide the school with substantially expanded, modern school accommodation. This is in addition to other capital investment at the school including under the Summer Works Scheme, Emergency Works Scheme and for Furniture and Equipment.
Tipperary ETB recently responded to the proposed brief reiterating its preference for a new school building on a greenfield site. My Department will continue to engage with Tipperary ETB, particularly with regard to the more immediate accommodation needs of the school.
