Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
315. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Education the reason for the delay in two schools (details supplied) opening their ASD units, given that four and a half years have passed since both schools were granted autism classes in 2020, with no sign of the autism classes being opened; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36491/24]
View answerThe Project referred to by the Deputy was approved to enter the department’s pipeline of school buildings in June 2021 to provide a four Classroom Special Educational Needs (SEN) base, a General purpose room and Ancillary under the department‘s Additional School Accommodation (ASA) Scheme. The project has been devolved for delivery to the school authority.
I can confirm that this project received my departments approval to go to planning in Q1 of 2024 and the department awaits a post planning (developed design) report from the school for review.
The delays have been primarily due to the timing required for the appointment of a design team, the subsequent development of the design and the necessary review of the project from both a technical and cost perspective in accordance with the requirements of the Public Spending Code.
My department will continue to engage with the school authority to provide practical advice and assistance on this much needed project. It is now within the remit of the school authority to progress this project accordingly.
