Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2026
370. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current status of a school's application (details supplied) under the additional accommodation scheme; when a decision will issue as to whether it can proceed to the next stage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18149/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am pleased to advise the Deputy that phase 1 of the modular/repurposing works for the school in question was completed in May 2025 and this delivered new accommodation to the school which comprised a new technology/graphics room, modern toilet block, disabled access toilet and a deputy principal's office. The works also improved access to the permanent building of the school.
As the Deputy is aware, I have recently published the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan for the Education and Youth Sectors. This NDP Sectoral Plan involves a very strong emphasis on maximising existing capacity and prioritisation of school building projects to meet the most urgent needs. This list of projects were prioritised from those projects in the department’s pipeline which were sufficiently advanced to enable them to go to tender or construction over the course of 2026 and 2027.
A department-led prioritisation process will continue over the course of 2026 and 2027 to assess and evaluate the progression of individual projects. This process will involve engagement with key stakeholders and individual schools.
Officials in my department are exploring a number of options in relation to the proposed phase 2 of this school's project, some of which involve consultation with the local county council. There will be direct engagement with the school authority in the weeks ahead as matters progress.
The school in question has also submitted applications for funding under the Emergency Works Scheme (EWS) to address fabric defects and roof works. As the Deputy may be aware, the purpose of the EWS is to provide funding specifically for unforeseen emergencies, or to provide funding to facilitate inclusion and access for pupils with special needs. It does so by ensuring the availability of funding for urgent works to those schools that are in need of resources as a result of an emergency situation. An emergency is deemed to be a situation which poses an immediate risk to health, life, property or the environment, which is sudden, unforeseen and requires immediate action, and in the case of a school, if not corrected would prevent the school or part thereof from opening.
The EWS operates on the basis of a minimal scope works to address the emergency situation. The EWS is intended to remedy an emergency situation and usually provides only an interim measure until a permanent solution can be delivered. The school in question has submitted applications for funding under the EWS to address fabric defects and roof works. These applications are under consideration at present.
In all cases the EWS team are aware of the urgent nature of the works required and will keep the school informed throughout the process.
