Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As I said, a further tranche of projects to progress to tender is expected to be confirmed next year. I gave a list of the types of priority projects that will be looked at. They include special schools, schools operating entirely in interim accommodation, projects providing significant special education capacity, additional accommodation to meet demographic growth, and schools with the most pressing building condition issues - that seems to be what the Senator is describing.

Regarding meetings with the Minister, I am not in a position to commit to that.Obviously, if that is what the Senator is looking for, she can contact the Minister. I will send the Minister a note stating that is what she is looking for. As she and I know, it will be up to her to organise it. I thank her for providing me, on behalf of the Minister, an opportunity to outline the Department's position on the project. The Department remains committed to providing ongoing guidance and practical support in the delivery of this project and will continue to engage closely with patron bodies, management bodies and schools on the progression of projects through the school building pipeline. This includes continued engagement with Coláiste Daibhéid and Cork ETB.