Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 5: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the construction of a new school (details supplied) which has been waiting for the past 18 years for a new school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31250/12]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I can confirm to the Deputy that in 2011 my Department purchased a site, subject to the granting of planning permission, to construct a new school building for the school in question. My officials have consulted with the planning authority and are currently preparing a planning application for a 16-classroom school.

In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects to meet demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The five-year programme is focused on meeting those demographic needs. The area in which the school is located has not been identified as an area of significant demographic growth. In that context, it has not been possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently.

All school building projects, including the project for the school in question, will continue to be advanced incrementally over time within the context of the funding available. However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible at this time to give an indicative timeframe for the construction of a new school building for the school.

Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I thank the Minister for his response, although it is disappointing. Gaelscoil Chluain Meala was established in September 1994. It has approximately 216 students and 11 teachers and provides education through Irish to the highest standards. However, the building from which it operates is very old, substandard and unfit for purpose. The school does its best to ensure it is maintained properly, but it is unfit for purpose. It has taken 18 years to get to the point where it now has a site and in view of this I urge the Minister to ensure the construction of the new school is expedited, irrespective of other matters. The delay in getting to construction is completely unacceptable.

The Minister said the issue of planning and planning permission is ongoing. What does that mean? Where do we stand with regard to the drawings? I am aware that local architects submitted drawings to the Department in 2010, but the Department indicated it was going to produce drawings in-house.

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Subject to confirmation, if necessary, the information I have is that formal planning permission has not yet been received from the local authority. Such permission has a shelf life or validity of five years. I will get back to the Deputy on the issue, but what should happen is that the process of applying for planning permission should proceed, notwithstanding the fact we do not have the additional funding available at this time. However, should such funding become available, they should then be ready to go on site immediately. The process of getting ready to go on site should continue. The indication from the information I have is that formal planning permission has not yet been received.

Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Is the application for planning permission not subject to the drawings being available from the Department? Will the Minister take a serious look at the file and will he take a personal interest in the matter? This has been ongoing for 18 years and judging by what the Minister said, it may continue quite a bit longer. I urge the Minister to take a personal interest in the matter because of the delay up to now.

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I will examine the matter and will take a personal interest in it.