Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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158. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason she has not given sanction for a pre-fab classroom to facilitate the autism class on the grounds of a school (details supplied), for which there is sufficient space; and to confirm if the delay is due to historic payment issues by her Department to the contractor. [27735/24]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm to the Deputy, that rental accommodation had been approved by my Department for the school in question. The rental company are due to connect the necessary utilities and carry out final checks before the accommodation can be used by the school. The school authorities are working with the accommodation provider on these matters and my officials have been informed that this is taking place imminently. This accommodation will then be available for the 24/25 school year.

I can assure the Deputy that the necessary funding has been provided by my Department and the school authorities are in receipt of same. This will allow them to progress with the rental accommodation for the upcoming school year.

The provision of required school places, including for children with special educational needs, is a priority for my Department and my officials are working to ensure that there is sufficient provision to meet the school place needs in the school in question and the wider School Planning Area for future years.