Michael Kennedy (Dublin North, Fianna Fail)
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Question 933: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the new building for Balbriggan Educate Together National School, County Dublin, does not include a physical education hall or general purpose assembly area; if planning permission for a PE hall or general purpose area could be fast tracked for this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15183/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy may be aware that the site in Balbriggan to which he refers, was acquired by my Department under the Fingal Model Agreement. The master plan for this site is for two 16 classroom schools. In addition an enhanced community facility will be provided as part of the Phase II development and will be co-financed by Fingal County Council.

Officials from my Department met with the school authorities in September 2009 and explained the brief, construction method and the phased delivery in detail. It is not possible to deliver the Enhanced Community Facility as a stand alone project. However it will be delivered as part of the phase II delivery for the second school on this site.

With regard to the Phase I development the brief includes a new 16 classroom school, a Special Needs Unit and ancillary accommodation. My Department is also providing support teaching spaces, a junior play area of 200m2, a play area for the Special Needs Unit, and 2 ball-courts.