1297. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on the progress made to date on the planning application for works at a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57460/26]

The major building project referred to by the Deputy is being delivered as part of my Department’s ADAPT Programme.

The ADAPT Programme uses a professional external Project Manager to achieve the best possible timeframe for the project through the stages of Architectural Planning to Tender and Construction.

The major project is for a new replacement school building, and all associated site works to provide accommodation for a long-term projected enrolment of 650 students. The existing temporary accommodation will be relocated on site as an enabling works contract prior to the commencement of the main contract for the new school building.

The major project is currently at Stage 2(b) of the architectural design process. Stage 2(b) involves detailed design, securing all statutory approvals and the preparation of tender documentation. Planning Permission was secured in March 2025.

My department received the stage 2(b) submission report from the Design Team in October 2025 and it is currently under review.

I would like to advise the Deputy, over this period, since 2020, my Department has provided €53.79 million in capital funding for Carlow schools. Over this period, a total of 26 schools has been upgraded either through provision of a new school building, a large-scale extension or provision of modular accommodation. 3 school projects to go to tender or construction in 2026 and 2027 were included in the NDP Implementation Plan. There are currently 4 school projects in Carlow under construction.

This summer, 5 schools are approved to undergo works as part of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme. In addition, since 2020 a total of 39 special classes has been sanctioned in Carlow, of which 12 were sanctioned for September 2026.

Any interim accommodation requirements will continue to be assessed and considered by the department on a case-by-case basis to determine the prioritised needs and approach for addressing same.

The accommodation needs at St Mary's Academy CBS will be considered as part of the ongoing overall department-led prioritisation process, in consultation with the school’s patron and school authorities.