Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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311. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will respond to matters raised in a letter from the parents’ association of a school in Dublin 11 (details supplied); if she will meet with the parents of pupils in the school as requested; if she will provide a definitive timeline for the redevelopment of the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16329/24]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I can assure the Deputy that the major building project for Scoil Chiaráin Special School is a significant priority for my Department.

While the original project brief was to deliver a new extension and refurbishment of the current school building, it was agreed, following a review by the Design Team to revise the project scope to deliver a new replacement school at the current site in Glasnevin.

The current building dates from the late 1970s. The new building will provide purpose-built accommodation for students with special educational needs, ranging in age from 4 to 18 years. This will comprise 20 mainstream classrooms, along with additional specialised rooms including Art, Home Economics, Woodwork, a Library, GP Room, Dining Space, Sensory Room, dedicated therapy rooms and all associated ancillary accommodation. The accommodation will take into consideration the specific needs of the students of Scoil Chiaráin.

The project is currently close to completion of Stage 2(b) of the architectural design process. Stage 2(b) involves detailed design and the preparation of tender documentation. The next stage, subject to relevant Stage 2(b) approvals, will be Stage 3, tender stage. Projects are subject to relevant due diligence by my Department at each stage in the process, within the context of overall programme and budgetary parameters.

In late March, following a review of National Development Plan allocations, the Government approved medium term capital allocations for the Department of Education for the period to 2026. The Department’s Planning and Building Unit is now reviewing its programme plans in the context of those recently confirmed allocations.

Special schools are a particular priority for my Department’s school building programme and I know the new building for Scoil Chiaráin will be transformative for the school community.

Department officials will keep the school authorities updated on progress and next steps.