399. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on a school's building project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51731/26]

As previously advised the project was approved to enter the Department’s pipeline of school buildings providing a 2-classroom special educational needs base.

The Stage 2b (post planning) report was submitted to the Department and remains under review. Given the detailed nature of the evaluation process, the need to ensure full cost compliance, and the requirement to align the project with the prioritisation framework under the National Development Plan, this review process is necessarily thorough.

If the school accommodation presents an immediate health and safety risk, the school may apply for Emergency Works funding. The scheme supports urgent, unforeseen situations that pose a risk to health, safety, property or the environment and, if not addressed, could prevent the school, or part of it, from operating. It also provides funding to support access and inclusion for students with special educational needs and for staff members where required. Applications must meet the criteria set out in Circular 0068/2020 and include the necessary supporting documentation.

Progression to the next phase is contingent on the project being assessed and advanced in line with the prioritisation framework under the National Development Plan. This project remains part of the overall pipeline of school building projects and will continue to be managed in line with National Development Plan prioritisation parameters.