Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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486. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the new school building for a school (details supplied) which is yet to break ground; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46788/21]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning, Stage 2(b) – Detailed Design, which includes the applications for Planning Permission, Fire Cert and Disability Access Cert and the preparation of tender documents.

Planning permission was secured for this project in May 2020 on the basis of a proposed amended Right of Way in favour of a neighbouring property owner.

Discussions have been ongoing with the neighbouring property owner with a view to finalising an agreement in respect of the amended Right of Way and matters arising from the abuttal of the two buildings.

One matter remains outstanding which relates to the relocation of an air vent on the side of the neighbouring property. A meeting between both technical teams is currently being scheduled with a view to reaching agreement in relation to a workable solution regarding this outstanding matter.

The Design Team is currently working on the completion of the Stage 2(b) report which upon completion will be submitted to my Department for review.

In order to expedite the progression of this project the Department, in January 2021, authorised the Design Team to commence the pre-qualification process to select a shortlist of contractors for this project in parallel with the completion of the Stage 2(b) report. The Pre-qualification process is now complete.

Upon final agreement relating to the outstanding issues and receipt, review and approval of the Stage 2(b) report my Department will be in contact with the Design Team regarding the progression of this project to tender and construction stages.

My Department and the design team will continue to keep the school fully informed regarding the further progression of this project.