Written question asked by David Simpson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Friday, 13 April 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 18 April 2007. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Thursday, 19 April 2007 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Portadown School

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he plans to publish the economic appraisal of the proposed capital building project at Portadown Integrated Primary School; and what the reasons are for the time taken to conclude this study and make it available.

Answer: The Department of Education is aware of the accommodation deficiencies at Portadown Integrated Primary School and an initial feasibility study was produced for the school which is a stage prior to the production of the economic appraisal. Following the Bain review new capital projects should in future be considered in the context of a more co-ordinated and consistent area-based planning approach and this will need to be reflected in the appraisal. The Department will be in contact with the school as the work develops though I cannot confirm at present as to when the appraisal will be completed.

Secondary information