240. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 170 of 17 September 2019, if approval has now issued for the invitation of tenders for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42260/19]

This building project referred to by the Deputy is included in my Department’s Construction Programme which is being delivered under the National Development Plan.

The major building project is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning Stage 2b – Detailed Design, which includes securing Planning Permission, Fire Certificate and Disability Access Certificate and the preparation of tender documents.

The process of Pre-Qualification of contractors to compile a shortlist of suitable candidates is now complete. The next step for this project will be Stage 3 – tender stage. In that context, the Department will shortly be in contact with the school and Design Team to update them on the further progression of this major building project.