Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies for shining a light on the matter because it is important that we look after children with special needs as best we can. I want to try to expedite the process as much as I can and it remains an absolute priority for me and the Department to progress the acquisition. Unfortunately, due to the very specific and commercially sensitive nature of the site acquisition, I am not able to elaborate further on the issue. The Deputies can rest assured that the project is being given priority and our full attention.

When the current technical appraisal process is deemed satisfactory, the acquisition will advance to the legal conveyancing stage, when draft contracts can be prepared and legal due diligence can be undertaken in respect of the proposed transaction. It is expected that at that stage, the project to deliver the new school accommodation can simultaneously progress to the architectural planning stage. I assure all parties that they will be kept apprised of progress on this priority project.

The process is very complex and subject to the completion of successful negotiation and conveyancing processes, as I have said. It is not possible to give Deputies a definitive timeframe for the completion of the acquisition, although I would like to. My officials and I will endeavour to bring the process to a conclusion as soon as possible. I expect this to be sooner rather than later.

I appreciate the fact that both Deputies are caring for their community and they have taken the time and trouble to engage not just with Kildare County Council but with the schools, constituents and parents. They have attended public meetings, and it shows that they care about these children with special needs, who are often forgotten. I commend the Deputies on this.

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