Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The project to which the Deputy refers has been devolved to the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) for delivery as part of a programme of school building projects.

It is currently at Stage 2b of the architectural design process. A planning application was lodged with Carlow County Council and planning permission was granted in Quarter 3 2023. The pre-qualification process is currently underway and once complete, and following Departmental approval, the NDFA will continue the tender process for appointing a contractor in due course.

While at this stage it is not possible to provide an accurate timeline for completion of this project, the NDFA will be engaging directly with the school authorities to keep them informed of progress.

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that approval under the Additional School Accommodation scheme has issued to the school in question for the provision of two Special Education Needs classes and reconfiguration works for two displaced general classrooms.

The project is being delivered under the Department’s Devolved SEN Reconfiguration and Modular Accommodation programme. The Department has a significant modular accommodation programme in place to assist schools in the provision of additional capacity, including in respect of facilitating the establishment of special classes. This programme involves the use of Project Management supports which is designed to enable the accommodation to be provided as quickly as possible and help ease the administrative workload for school authorities in relation to the management and delivery of projects.

The use of the Department's Modular Accommodation Framework also assists in ensuring lead in periods for procurement of modular accommodation are minimised to the greatest extent possible. The overall construction sector environment is challenging and the Department and the Project Management company are doing everything possible to ensure that modular accommodation is delivered as quickly as possible. My Department is fully aware of the urgency in respect of same and will be working with the school to keep it updated on overall project delivery and timelines.

Kerrigan Sheanan Newman Construction Consultants (KSN) has been appointed, from the Department’s Framework, to design and tender the project. This consultant is leading the project through the various stages of planning process and construction.

The School Authority has devolved responsibility for delivery of the project and my Department are currently awaiting the Form of Acceptance from the school authority.