Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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103. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the status of a new building for a school (details supplied); when the next stage is due to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41117/17]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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The brief for the school referred to by the Deputy is for a new three storey building of 5926m², containing 20 classrooms, Junior/Senior dining area, GP Hall, Library, Special Teacher rooms, Multi- Sensory, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy rooms, nurse’s area, kitchen, ancillary storage and services.

In July of this year, the Stage 2b (Detailed Design) was approved, pending the completion of the process to carry out a Prequalification of Contractors.  The pre-qualification process is necessary to create a shortlist of building contractors to ensure that there are a number of appropriate and suitable candidates who can tender for the construction contract. 

The tender process, including the pre-qualification of contractors, normally takes between 4 to 6 months.  My Department anticipates that this project will complete the tender process and go on site to commence construction in early 2018.  

I can assure the Deputy that my Department will make every effort to expedite this process.