Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

810. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills for a detailed up-to-date report regarding the extension to a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45336/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The school referred to by the Deputy was approved to enter the departments pipeline of school buildings for a project to provide 4 SET/Pastoral Rooms, 1 Multi-Media room, 1 Music Room, 1 Textiles Room, 1 Art Room, Project store, 3 SEN Class Base, and reconfiguration works to existing Multimedia Room to revert to 1 Mainstream Classroom.

The project has been devolved for delivery to the Kerry Education and Training Board (ETB).

In March 2025, my department issued approval to Kerry Education and Training Board (ETB) for this project to progress to Stage 2a (Detailed Design) of the architectural planning and design process.

This stage must include the development of the design along with an accurate cost plan which best meets the design agreed at Stage 1. My department now awaits a Stage 2a report from the school for review. When the Stage 2a submission is received it will be reviewed from both a technical and cost perspective in accordance with the requirements of the Public Spending Code. All projects, including this one, will undergo the necessary due diligence outlined in the public Infrastructure Guidelines. Managing timing, scope, and cost is crucial to staying within budgetary limits for the overall program.

My department will continue to engage with Kerry Education and Training Board to provide practical advice and assistance for the progression of this much needed project.