John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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611. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason for the delay in approving the funding for the Nore school building bundle; the timeframe for approval; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12389/23]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The school accommodation ‘Project Nore' bundle is comprised of seven school projects which is devolved for delivery to the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA).

The "Project Nore" bundle is currently at Stage 3 which is the tender process. Tenders have been received and are being evaluated as part of the Tender Assessment Report.

My Department’s Planning and Building Unit is currently assessing its work programme and priorities for 2023 in the context of overall requirements and available funding. The most immediate priorities are to cater for September 2023 requirements.

As part of its planning ahead for 2023, the Department is engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform in relation to capital funding pressures. Key priorities for the Department's work programme include continuing strong delivery to support the operation of the school system with particular regard to planning ahead for the 2023/24 school year and beyond and also with particular regard to supporting special needs provision. The progression of the "Project Nore" bundle of schools will be considered as part of this overall process.