I propose to take Questions Nos. 293 and 294 together.
The large scale capital project at the school referred to by the Deputy, is at Architectural Planning Stage 4 - Construction.
The project brief is for a new 16 classroom school and ancillary accommodation on a brownfield city centre site. The site is of archaeological interest and abuts a protected structure.
Works commenced on site in June 2023 with an estimated contract duration of 24 months, however due to unforeseen ground conditions, which are not uncommon on sites of this specific nature, the project has incurred a slight delay.
To minimise the impact of this delay my Department is liaising closely with the Design Team, to assist with the progression of the project and has recently authorised the appointment of a Project Manager to oversee the project and maintain progress.
It is not currently possible to give an estimated completion date until the Design Team have reviewed the impact of the unforeseen ground conditions.
My Department note the question in relation to the number of days worked on site this year, however, such matters are managed under contractual arrangements in conjunction with the contractor.
The Department will continue to keep the School Authority fully informed as the project progresses.