268. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Youth the status of the proposed provision of four autism special classes and a standalone specialist teaching building at school (details supplied); whether these facilities remain approved in principle by her Department; and the anticipated timeframe for progressing the development to construction. [75212/26]

269. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Youth if her Department has assessed the additional accommodation requirements of a school (details supplied), arising from its transition to co-education in September 2027; and if the anticipated increase in enrolment, including applications already received from boys, will be taken into account when prioritising the proposed building project. [75210/26]

271. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current status of the Stage 2A submission lodged in December 2025 for the additional accommodation project at a school (details supplied); whether the assessment has been completed; if any further information or documentation is outstanding; and when a decision is expected. [75209/26]

272. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Youth if the additional accommodation project at a school (details supplies) is being considered for inclusion in the next tranche of approved school building projects; and when decisions on that tranche will be announced. [75207/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 268, 269, 271 and 272 together.

The school to which the Deputy refers was approved to enter my Department’s pipeline to provide one science laboratory and prep area, one graphics room, one art room and project store, a two-classroom special educational needs (SEN) base and associated spaces under my Department's Additional Accommodation Scheme (ASA). The project is devolved to the school authority for delivery.

The project is currently at Stage 2a, detailed design. The stage 2a report was submitted to my Department in December 2025 and is currently being reviewed from both a technical and cost perspective in accordance with the requirements of the Public Spending Code.

My Department will take into account all relevant information relating to the school's accommodation needs, including projected enrolment growth associated with its transition to co-education in September 2027. Any enrolment projections and applications received by the school will be considered, together with other relevant demographic and accommodation data, as part of the assessment of the proposed project.

As the project is currently at Stage 2a and has not yet progressed to the planning stage, it is not possible to provide an indicative delivery timeline at this time. The overall programme for the project will be influenced by statutory approvals and the planning process, matters which are outside the direct control of the Department.

In August 2026, department officials contacted the school to advise that the project remains under review in the context of NDP parameters and the overall prioritisation of capital investment.

All school building projects, as they progress through the pipeline, must undergo the necessary due diligence outlined in the Infrastructure Guidelines and Capital Works Management Framework.

The timing of a project moving from one stage to the next requires careful planning and takes account of factors such as compliance with all scope, design and cost requirements; timing of affordability; and the prioritisation necessary for the school building programme to remain within agreed annual funding allocations.

Department officials will continue their engagement with the school over the coming months to provide any necessary guidance.