 01 February, 2008 - Minister Hanafin announces the first phase of the 2008 large-scale building projects programme - Emphasis now is on delivering maximum number of school places – Minister Hanafin
The Minister for Education and Science, Mary Hanafin, T.D., today announced details of the large scale building projects that she has approved to commence construction. These projects will deliver
- 13 new schools and two extensions at primary level,
- Two new schools and one extension at post-primary level,
- A further 30 new primary schools in rapidly developing areas, being planned to be in place by next September.
Minister Hanafin said "these schools are the first phase of the projects that will commence construction during 2008 and 2009. The immediate task is to ensure that the projects in this first phase are advanced to construction immediately. We need to be in a position to ensure that we can deliver the maximum number of school places in order to meet the increased school population. With almost €600million to be spent this year on school building projects we need to manage the projects on a rolling basis throughout the year in order to deliver the best outcome for our investment."
Minister Hanafin went on to say "where suitable sites are available, permanent schools are being delivered. The remainder are temporary schools, pending finalisation of suitable permanent sites. Plans are well advanced for these schools and Planning Permission applications are being lodged."
The Minister said that today's announcement reflects "the particular emphasis in 2008 on providing sufficient school places in developing areas, while also showing the Government's commitment to delivering improvements in the quality of existing primary and post-primary school accommodation throughout the country. The progression of three special schools will also deliver quality facilities for children with special educational needs." The Minister added that in addition to the post-primary school projects progressing to construction over the next number of months, construction is also expected to commence in 2008 on the first bundle of PPP post-primary schools.
Minister Hanafin also confirmed that the 254 projects previously announced devolved schemes, that had not yet commenced construction, should position themselves to go on site in 2008 and complete their projects where possible before the end of the year. The Minister also indicated that it was her intention to make a further announcement after Easter to allow a further batch of schools to commence construction and to update progress on the new schools planned for September 2008 delivery in developing areas.
In respect of the 18 schools on List A, the Department will be in contact with the school authorities over the next number of days to advise on the most appropriate preparation schedule applicable on each project. The Department is directly managing the provision of the new primary schools in developing areas (List B).
View List of Building Projects here
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