Written answers

Wednesday, 26 September 2018

Department of Education and Skills

Schools Building Projects Status

Photo of Thomas ByrneThomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

136. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the completion of 42 schools announced on 13 April 2018; the estimated target for the schools opening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38986/18]

Photo of Richard BrutonRichard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware, in April 2018 I announced the establishment of 42 new schools over the next four year period from 2019 to 2022. In that regard the 17 schools due to open in September 2019 remain on schedule.

I wish to advise the Deputy that the first of the patronage processes for the new schools is ongoing in respect of the four new post-primary schools to be established in 2019. The patronage process for the remaining schools will also be run at a later date, significantly ahead of their due opening. It is planned that the patronage process for the new primary schools to be established in 2019 will commence before the end of 2018. Updates in relation to further patronage processes will be announced on the OPPS website and the Department’s website (www.education.ie).

My Department will be seeking to maximise the use of sites already in the Minister’s ownership and of available properties in the ownership of other State bodies, where these are considered suitable.

My Department recently appointed a Project Manager to assist in the procurement of interim school accommodation for the schools opening in September 2019. My Department has identified potential interim accommodation solution options for the majority of the schools to open in September 2019. The progression of these will be a key priority for the Project Manager. The Project Manager will also assist the Department in sourcing permanent accommodation options.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.