Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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124. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a new school project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25809/20]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The major building project for the new school referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage of the tender process. The Design Team has finalised its engagement with the preferred bidder and the preferred bidder is in the process of putting in place the required bond. It is anticipated that the supplementary tender report with the fully executed bond should be received in the Department shortly.

Subject to no issues arising, it is envisaged that construction will commence in the 4th quarter of 2020 with a contract duration of approximately 20 months.

Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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125. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the provision of a new school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25810/20]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm for the Deputy that the Department is currently finalising a site identification exercise in order to technically appraise suitable sites within the relevant school planning areas, for the post primary school to which you refer. This exercise has been progressed during the past months, in line with restrictions in place due to the covid-19 pandemic, nevertheless, my officials have progressed the exercise to the point where final site selection is imminent. Further announcements will be made when it becomes possible to do so.

Due to obvious commercial sensitivities, I cannot elaborate any further at this juncture but please rest assured that the project is being given due consideration and attention.

Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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126. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a new school project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25811/20]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is included in my Department’s Construction Programme which is being delivered under the National Development Plan. The project is currently at Stage 1 of architectural planning which entails preliminary site surveys, location suitability and initial sketch scheme.

A review in 2019 of the demand for post-primary provision in the area resulted in an increase in the schedule of accommodation to cater for up to 1,300 pupils.

The Stage 1 report has just been received by my Department. Upon review, my Department will then be in contact with the school and its design team with regard to the further progression of the project.