Michael Ring
Ceist:133. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education when an additional classroom will be sanctioned for a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8445/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 22 February 2024
Ceisteanna (133)
Freagraí scríofa
I can confirm to the Deputy, that my Department has received an application for capital funding, under the Additional School Accommodation (ASA) scheme from the school in question. The purpose of the ASA 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.
My department's focus is on the most critical needs for the next school year and how each individual school’s accommodation can be best utilised. It is very important that capacity in existing schools and across a town or area is maximised to the greatest extent possible.
In the context of making most effective use of our capital allocation, and mindful of climate action goals, my officials are working to make sure that all school accommodation capacity is being maximised.
The application is currently being assessed by my officials. Once the assessment process has been finalised, the school authority will be notified of the decision directly.