Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 500: To ask the Minister for Education and Science his views on the situation facing pupils and staff of a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow due to ongoing structural problems; the status of the school in relation to the school building programme; his further views on whether this school is in urgent need of repair; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46114/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The proposed building project for the school to which the Deputy refers is at an advanced stage of architectural planning.

The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 501: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he will investigate the circumstances under which works at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 have not been completed in accordance with the agreed formula worked out between the school management and design team on 5 November 2008 and given approval by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46120/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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An extensive project for the school referred to by the Deputy is nearing completion. As is normal, the school's consultant architect provided certification relating to satisfactory progress at various stages of the works. My Department funded the school, who were the party to the contract, on receipt of the certification to enable payments to be made to the contractor as required under the terms of the contract between the school and the contractor.

Officials from my Department met with the school management to discuss the situation which arose and urged the school to comply with the terms of the contract regarding payment due to the contractor. I understand that the school subsequently met with the consultant architect and exchanged correspondence with the contractor regarding the release of money and the completion of works on the project. It is anticipated that the works will be completed shortly.