School builds in the balance

According to a list of new build projects the schools have 'partially' met criteria for the work.

Lurgan College, Carrick Primary, St Teresa's Primary and Tannaghmore were on the list released by the Department of Education on Monday.

The schools were said to be 'partially compliant'. This means there are issues with the projects either directly relating to the school or concerning issues of sustainability, which must be resolved if they are to become compliant.

Education minister, Catriona Ruane has said some of the schools are already at the tender or pre-tender stage.

The Department of Education refused to detail the stage at which the four Lurgan schools were at in order to become compliant.

A spokesman said the schools had been informed and it was up to them to release details.

However, with the schools breaking for summer last week it has proved impossible for the 'MAIL' to contact the respective principals.

For the schools that have been given full approval the future is also by no means certain with the projects dependent on funding - and a current emphasis on public spending cuts.

At Monday night's council meeting Dolores Kelly proposed the council should write to the department for clarification on the announcement and its implications for schools in the area.

Education minister, Catriona Ruane was criticised for refusing to name the schools in her statement to the Assembly last week - a statement that was delivered a week late.

In September last year the 'MAIL' reported on plans for the new building at Lurgan College hanging in the balance.

The Department of Education said it was unable to approve the appraisal but was given new information to consider.

It was thought the economic appraisal featured in a wrangle on the lack of an overall plan for controlled education in the Lurgan area.

Funding to the tune of 12million had been approved by the department earlier in the year and work was to begin at the beginning of the school year just past.