Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising the matter as it provides an opportunity to outline the current position with regard to the major building project for Mercy Convent Primary School, Naas. I know the Deputy has been consistent in raising the issue with the Minister, Deputy Foley. As the House is aware, the project is included in the Department of Education’s construction programme, which will be delivered under the national development plan as part of the Project Ireland 2040 framework. The Department’s planning and building unit is currently assessing its work programme and priorities for 2024 in the context of overall requirements. Mercy Convent Primary School remains a priority for delivery on behalf of the Department. A tender report was received by the Department in quarter 3 of 2023, as noted by the Deputy, and is currently under review. The authorisation to issue the letter of acceptance has not issued. The next steps for this project will be the completion of the tender process and progression to stage 4, namely, construction.

I assure the Deputy and the Mercy Convent Primary School community that the school building project will be progressed and delivered. The Department of Education will update the school authorities when there is a further update on the progression of this major and important project.

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