Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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207. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the progress made in relation to accommodation works for a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27154/24]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm to the Deputy, that my Department is in receipt of an application for the Additional School Accommodation (ASA) Scheme, from the school in question.

The purpose of the ASA scheme is to ensure that essential mainstream and special education classroom accommodation is available to cater for pupils enrolled each year and where the need cannot be met by the school’s existing accommodation.

Officials from my Department's Professional and Technical Section visited the school in question, in order to determine the scope of the accommodation required in the school and the condition of the existing school building, which includes a listed building. The accommodation requirements at the school are now being considered on foot of this. My officials are regularly in contact with the school authorities in relation to this matter.

I can also confirm that the school in question has submitted a number of applications for funding under the Emergency Works Scheme (EWS). The application for funding to address the Life Safety Systems (fire alarm & emergency lighting) has already been approved and the remaining outstanding applications are being considered in the wider context of the schools accommodation needs. My Department is aware of the urgent nature of the works required and the school will be kept informed throughout the process.