Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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391. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the condition of a school (details supplied) which is in a deplorable condition and is unsafe for pupils attending the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45229/21]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy may be aware, a major building project for the school in question is at an advanced stage of architectural planning, Stage 2(b) - Detailed Design. All statutory approvals have been secured.

In October 2020, in order to expedite the progression of this major building project, my Department authorised the school patron and its Design Team to commence a pre-qualification process to select a shortlist of contractors, in parallel with the Department’s review of the stage 2(b) submission for this project.

The pre-qualification process is at an advanced stage and upon its completion (and subject to no issues arising), my Department will be in contact with the patron and its Design Team with regard to the further progression of this project to the next stage of architectural planning, Stage 3 (Tender Stage).

I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department is aware of concerns expressed relating to some of the school's temporary accommodation. My Department has made contact with the patron who is examining the matter. The patron has been advised that it is open to it to submit an applicaiton for funding to address any required works and I understand that the patron expects to be in contact with my Department in the coming days.