Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 37: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the name, address and capacity of the 67 large scale projects and the 27 new schools mentioned as being included in the capital allocation of almost €830 million in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26074/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The information sought by the Deputy is given in the tabular statements. The expected completion of large scale projects in 2008 will consist of 21 new schools and 46 extension/refurbishment projects giving an overall total of 67 large scale projects due to be completed in 2008.

An additional feature of the 2008 school building and modernisation programme is the provision of new schools in developing areas under an accelerated programme. To cater for the anticipated increases in the school-going population, my Department has established a Developing Areas Unit to identify areas of rapid population growth, to assess the educational needs in these areas and to plan solutions for the accommodation needs identified.

As part of a fast-track programme of construction for September 2008, the Department is building 26 schools and a number of smaller projects in those areas where school accommodation is under greatest pressure.

1 This project was originally announced as 2 eight classroom schools.

2 This project was originally announced as 1 eight classroom school (New VEC Community Primary School). What will be delivered in 2008 will be 1 eight classroom primary school plus accommodation to cater for up to 180 post-primary pupils.