Niall Collins
Ceist:284. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education when an approval letter will issue to a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7684/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 20 February 2024
Ceisteanna (284)
Freagraí scríofa
Since 2020, my Department has invested in the region of €4.3 billion in our schools throughout the country, including the completion of over 750 school building projects with construction currently underway at approximately 300 other projects, which includes 34 new school buildings.
School building projects at construction involve an overall State investment of over €1.2 billion. We also have a large modular accommodation programme delivering urgently needed school places.
This is a record level of investment in our schools and highlights the Government’s very strong track record of delivery in providing additional capacity and modern facilities for our school communities
I can confirm that the Department is in receipt of an application, under the Additional School Accommodation scheme, from the above named school. The purpose of the Additional School Accommodation scheme is to ensure that essential mainstream and special education classroom accommodation is available to cater for pupils enrolled each year and where the need cannot be met by the school’s existing accommodation or by other schools in the area.
The consideration of the accommodation requirements for the school in question forms part of the Planning and Building Unit’s overall assessment of its work programme and priorities in the context of available capital funding.
My officials are working to ensure that there is sufficient provision to meet the school place needs in the school in question and the wider area for 2024/25 and future years.
The Viability Report has been received from the Project Managers and has been reviewed by the departments Technical team. The viability report will issue the school authority for approval and acceptance very shortly. Officials in my Department will be available for any queries the school may have over the coming weeks.