Statement onschool builds due before summer

He made the comment in response to an Assembly Quesiton from East Londonderry MLA Gregory Campbell who asked him when he was due to make an announcement on capital projects, such as the new builds for Ebrington Primary School and Foyle College, Londonderry.

Late last year Mr O’Dowd commisioned the Education and Library Boards (ELBs), the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) and other educational sectors, to undertake viability audits of all schools, focusing on sustainable enrolment levels, quality of education and financial viability.

He also commissioned the ELBs and CCMS to co-ordinate collective strategic planning based on each Board area to shape the future pattern of education delivery.

He said then: “In any area, potential projects, such as that for Foyle College and Ebrington Primary School, will be critically assessed as part of the area planning process, to determine how they will contribute to the overall infrastructure needed.”

Now Mr O’Dowd has confirmed that this work has progressed and that the announcment of an interim investment plan is imminent.

Responding to Mr Campbell he stated: “As you will be aware the work on area planning is being taken forward at this time and will in due course identify priorities for capital investment.

“However, in the interim I recognise there is a need to ensure capital funding is utilised to improve the schools estate.

“Therefore I have asked officials to consider an interim process for the identification of major school projects, which are consistent with and supportive of the Area Planning work and in which capital investment can be made in the coming period.

“I would hope to be in the position to confirm an interim capital investment plan before the summer. Until then I cannot comment on any individual school proposal.”

Late last year Londonderry MLA William Hay suggested proceeding with the Ebrington PS element of the Clooney co-location project - with strict guarantees that the Foyle element follows immediately thereafter - if it makes it easier for the Education Minister John O’Dowd to secure funding for the investment.

Mr Hay told the Sentinel that ‘de-coupling’ the various elements of the landmark co-location project over a series of financial years might make it easier for the Minister get the crucial capital investment over the line.