Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I am responding on behalf of the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy Mary Coughlan. I thank the Senator for raising this matter as it provides me with the opportunity to outline to the Seanad the budget details for capital investment in education projects and to provide an update on the current position on Ballygarvan national school in particular.

In 2011, the Government's overall capital allocation will be €4.654 billion or 3.6% of GNP. The Department's allocation from this programme is €491 million, of which €383 million will be available for the schools building programme. This provision reflects the reduced allocation for such expenditure overall. I am confident, however, that the funding available will allow for demographic needs to be met and will provide for continued improvement to the stock of educational capital, especially given falling land values and tender prices.

With regard to Ballygarvan national school, the need to provide for additional school places has already been determined and consequently the proposed project for the construction of a new 16-classroom school was one of 25 projects announced to commence architectural planning in February 2009. Following the announcement of the project to enter into architectural planning in February 2009, detailed designs were prepared, planning permission lodged and a tender competition held.

Unfortunately, delays in securing planning permission and the acquisition by the patron of the two parcels of land required for the proposed new school building impacted on the scheduled delivery of the project. The completion of the land transfers in September by the patron enabled the Department to enter into discussions with the preferred bidder. Unfortunately, issues subsequently arose with the preferred bidder that resulted in a decision to re-tender the project. The project was put out to tender again on 1 December and the new tenders are due back before Christmas.

I confirm that the project will remain on the Department's rapid delivery programme, which should ensure the fastest possible delivery of this project. Subject to no further issues arising, it is envisaged the project will progress to construction in early 2011 with a construction period of approximately 26 weeks. Departmental officials are in contact with the school authorities who have been fully apprised of the progress on the project. The Department will continue to liaise with the patron and the school authorities regarding the proposed project.

I thank the Senator for giving me the opportunity to outline to the Seanad the current position regarding the school building project for Ballygarvan national school.