Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 1515: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the plans for the proposed new primary schools at Summerhill, Portlaoise, County Laois, with particular reference to a written proposal, in the form of representations made by the parish priest of the town of Portlaoise, in order that matters might be progressed without delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1333/09]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 1516: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when approval will be given for the commencement of construction of the two new primary schools situated at Summerhill, Portlaoise, County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1334/09]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 1517: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the position to include constructions commencement date in respect of the refurbishment and extension of a school (details supplied) in County Laois. [1335/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1515 to 1517, inclusive, together.

The proposals submitted by Portlaoise Parish involve the acquisition of a suitable site and the development and construction of additional school facilities which are, initially, to be funded by the Parish, with the Department entering into a contractual agreement to pay back these monies to the Parish over a term of years.

At the request of the Parish authorities, my Department recently met with the Patron's representative to discuss the proposal. While confirming its openness to consider alternative methods of procurement of school accommodation, my Department outlined the various issues that needed to be fully explored such as viability, risk management and value for money. My officials indicated to the Patron's representative that it would continue to explore the proposal in parallel with other possible delivery mechanisms. My Department will revert to the Parish in due course.