627. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Education the reason work on a school (details supplied), has not yet commenced despite a promised date of week beginning 19 August 2024; will she acknowledge the urgency and pressing need for this work to begin; to clearly outline what the delay is; when this vital work will start; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35104/24]

The school to which the Deputy refers is at an advanced stage of the tender process.  The scope of works is an extension and refurbishment project to increase the school accommodation to 16 classrooms along with the provision of a 2 classroom SEN, and all associated ancillary accommodation and external works.

A recommended bidder was identified, however, due to factors outside of my Department's control, the identified contractor has withdrawn and the Design Team have initiated the tender process with the next lowest tenderer.

Subject to this offer being accepted by the next lowest tenderer, and once a tender report is received and approved in my Department, it is envisaged works could commence on site in Quarter 4 2024 with an estimated completion of 22 months.