259 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has received a communication from the combined boards of management of St. Thomas and Scoil Áine Naofa, Esker, Lucan, County Dublin, expressing deep disappointment and concern at the continuing delay in giving approval to ancillary accommodation; if so, the reason for the delay which is contrary to assurances given by him in August 2000; if approval will be given without further delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10638/02]

The allocation for primary buildings in 2002 is €153.6 million, which is a record level of funding and demonstrates this Government's commitment to improving the accommodation situation in primary schools. This is almost four times the previous Government's investment in 1997.

Because of the greatly increased level of activity in the primary buildings area since this Government came into office, there has been a substantial increase in the number of major and minor building projects in construction and this has given rise to a record level of building and refurbishment activity.

Phase two of a building project for St. Thomas and Scoil Áine Naofa, Esker, Lucan, County Dublin is part of the Government's programme and is currently in architectural planning. It will continue to the preparation of tender documents and the invitation to tenders, as soon as possible, under the expanded building programme.