Compliance with Sanitary Order at Santa Cristina School Without Deadline ExtensionCumplimiento de orden sanitaria en Escuela Santa Cristina sin ampliación de plazo

**Constitutional Chamber** **Resolution No. 06255 - 2024** **Date of Resolution:** March 8, 2024, at 09:15 a.m. **Case File:** 22-017352-0007-CO **Drafted by:** Alejandro Delgado Faith **Type of Matter:** Amparo Action **Analyzed by:** CONSTITUTIONAL CHAMBER **Text of the resolution** Res. No. 2024006255 CONSTITUTIONAL CHAMBER OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUSTICE. San José, at nine hours fifteen minutes on March eighth, two thousand twenty-four.

Subsequent submission filed by ANNA KATHARINA MÜLLER CASTRO and LOURDES SÁUREZ BARBOZA, in their capacities as MINISTER and DIRECTOR OF EDUCATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE, BOTH OF THE MINISTRY OF PUBLIC EDUCATION (MINISTERIO DE EDUCACIÓN PÚBLICA).

**Whereas:** 1.- By a brief received via the Chamber's email at 3:28 p.m. on January 17, 2024, Anna Katharina Müller Castro and Lourdes Sáurez Barboza, in their capacities as Minister and Director of Educational Infrastructure, both of the Ministry of Public Education, state that according to report No. DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023 of December 21, 2023, signed by Rigoberto González Espinoza, in his capacity as an official of the Maintenance Department (Departamento de Mantenimiento), the following was indicated: "1…Actions taken to address the provisions of the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice: ▪ Due to the assignment to the Maintenance Department No. I-U-C2043-22-149 by the Programming and Monitoring Department (Departamento de Programación y Seguimiento), both of the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa), the educational center was visited on October 27, 2022, to assess the current conditions of the school's physical plant versus what was indicated by the Ministry of Health (Ministerio de Salud) through sanitary order (orden sanitaria) No.145-2017. ▪ Communication was established via email with the Health Governing Area (Área Rectora de Salud) of the zone to request the report and/or sanitary order resulting from the visit made by said entity (according to what was communicated by Mr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, school director) in order to analyze, based on circular No.DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S, the criteria on the aspects to be addressed and the established deadlines (seeking to consider possible new requirements) so they can be included in the final project proposal (which specifically covers what is stated in sanitary order 145-2017). ▪ Below, the actions undertaken to provide a definitive solution to the problems related to the development of civil infrastructure works are described, actions undertaken from May 2021 to December 2023: ▪ The relocation of the educational center is analyzed according to the guideline in circular DVM-A-DIE-0025-CIR-2019, Assessment of Single-Teacher Schools (Valoración de Escuelas Unidocentes), and in report DVM-ADIE-DDO-0558-2022, of June 27, 2022, it is concluded that the relocation of the student population to the nearest educational center is not viable. ▪ On August 12, 2022, the members of the educational center's administration were informed that existing resources will be used for the process of contracting professional services, given the request of the Board president to use the resources. ▪ On August 22, 2022, through document DVM-A-DIE-DPS-0245-2022, the case was transferred to be handled by the Maintenance Department (DM) and the file, in physical version, on August 31, 2022, to the professional Eng. Allan Ramírez, coordinator of sanitary orders and amparo actions (recursos de amparo). ▪ On October 27, 2022, a site visit was conducted for the case assessment according to the procedure to be followed in the DM. ▪ In October 2023, training was given on the subject for it to be handled by the professional Rigoberto González Espinoza, and coordination was carried out with the officials of the Ministry of Health for the respective approach and review of the sanitary order. ▪ The diagnostic report is updated, as of December 14, 2023, document identified as DVM-A-DIE-DM-0862-2023, which contains the works to be promoted in compliance with what was requested by the Ministry of Health and their associated costs, a technical input that will allow the respective contracting procedures to begin. 2. Actions to be performed to address the provisions of the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice: ▪ In January 2024, the Maintenance Department will process the request for technical authorization before the Programming and Monitoring Department of the DIE, so that it is sent to the Education Board (Junta de Educación) of the Santa Cristina School and it can carry out the contracting of professional services. ▪ Economic resources are already available in the accounts of the Education Board for it to first carry out the contracting of professional services, and subsequently, to carry out the contracting for the construction of the Works. ▪ The professional services that the Board must manage entail the contracting of the professional who will be responsible for designing (preparing in accordance with the regulations of the Federated College of Engineers and Architects of Costa Rica: preliminary studies, technical studies, preliminary project, construction plans, technical specifications, detailed budget, work schedule, and work execution inspection) and processing the project before the corresponding instances. ▪ Once the previous step is completed and with the inputs delivered to the DIE, the respective reviews will be carried out to continue with the next step, the request for resources, so that the Board carries out the contracting of the works; with the economic content, the board will be able to initiate the contracting process for a construction company that will be responsible for carrying out the execution of the works. ▪ The estimated timeframe for carrying out the formulation procedures, contracting of professional services, design, plan processing, work contracting, and project execution is 3 months, a timeframe that would begin next year. ▪ The resources for construction would be requested by September 2024, until the corresponding resources are available, resources which are subject to the budget availability for the assignment of resources by the Ministry of Finance (Ministerio de Hacienda) to the Education Board for the promotion of said procedures, and to the implementation by the Ministry of Education of the new legal, administrative, and procedural provisions regarding the Law and General Regulation of Public Procurement, in effect since December first, 2022. ▪ Below, a schedule of activities to be carried out is presented: (...) Below, the stages of the presented schedule are described: 1. Request and authorization for contracting professional services for the preliminary project, design, budget. (begins January 2024). 2. Review of the status of existing resources, legal conditions of the Board, and legality of the property (February 2024). 3. Contracting of professional for design (February to March 2024). 4. Preparation, review, and authorization of preliminary studies (March 2024). 5. Preparation, review, and authorization of the preliminary project (March 2024). 6. Preparation, review, and authorization of construction plans and technical specifications (March 2024). 7. Preparation, review, and authorization of work budgets (April 2024). 8. Request for resources for work execution (until September 2024). 9. Deposit of resources for work execution (until November 2024). 10. Work contracting processes (from December to February 2025). 11. Execution and handover of works (starting March 2025 and ending July 2025). According to the expert opinion, the Honorable Chamber is requested to grant an additional timeframe equal to 19 months for the comprehensive attention (completion of the process of contracting professional services, development of the design consultancy, the work contracting process, and its execution) of the project for this educational center, which is justified for the following reasons: • That, in the development of the technical studies, preliminary studies, preliminary project, construction plans and technical specifications, detailed budget, environmental feasibility procedure (trámite de viabilidad ambiental) at SETENA, disbursement flow schedule, unforeseen events not detected in the initial project formulation may arise. • The time for searching for economic resources for the execution of the work: once the budget for the works is determined, the necessary amount to cover the cost of the works to be built can be requested from the Directorate of the DIE, in order to process its due deposit so that the contracting of the company responsible for the construction of the works is subsequently carried out. For these procedures, a duration of 6 months is considered. • The timeframe for granting technical authorization before the Education and/or Administrative Boards can resort to a work contracting procedure and cover the infrastructure needs in the educational centers. • The Board must carry out a second contracting procedure for the execution of the works, with the advice of the external consultant hired in the design consultancy development stage, in which delays may arise due to possible circumstances such as: non-receipt of bids, non-compliant bids received leading to a declaration of a void procedure, as well as the appeal period that these procedures have, among others." She adds that the provision of educational service has not been interrupted and that classes continue to be taught in the facilities within the educational community.

2.- By a resolution issued at 2:14 p.m. on January 18, 2024, a hearing was granted to Luis Fernando Gómez Cordero, in his capacity as Acting Director (Director a.i.) of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba of the Ministry of Health, or whoever holds that position in his place.

3.- By a brief received in the Secretariat of the Chamber and incorporated into the digital case file at 10:22 a.m. on January 23, 2024, Edwin Cervantes Montoya, in his capacity as Director of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba, reports under oath. He states that subsequent to the receipt of judgment 2023-001061 of January 25, 2023, a follow-up visit for sanitary order No. 0145-2017 was conducted, and the visit was carried out on January 25, 2023, by Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process (Proceso de Regulación de la Salud), from which report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0045-2023 was issued, and indicated the following: "SITUATION FOUND. The on-site inspection is carried out on January 25, 2023, as recorded in inspection report (acta de inspección) N°009-2023 attached to the file. At 09:30 hours I appeared at the place where the open entrance to the facilities is located; however, the classrooms and dining hall are closed, and no person is found this day. Even though no person could be located during the visit, a tour of the place was conducted and the following was found: • The sanitary service is open, and it is therefore determined that it still fails to comply with the dimensions indicated in Law 7600 on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (Ley 7600 de Igualdad de Oportunidades para Personas con Discapacidad). • Likewise, the doors do not have the minimum width of 0.90 cm. • The passage from the entrance gate to the school entrance is not properly covered. • The perimeter has not been closed. • The corridors do not have the minimum width of 1.20 cm, in accordance with the Regulation of Law 7600. CONCLUSIONS. Compliance with all the sanitary provisions of the sanitary order could not be verified; however, upon touring the facilities, a breach in various aspects at the structural level that have not been modified according to what is indicated in the administrative act (acto administrativo) is evident. RECOMMENDATION. Reschedule the visit to be able to carry out the complete tour of the entire educational center to verify the remaining points of the sanitary order." He narrates that on February 7, 2023, an inspection visit was carried out by Sofía Cordero Núñez from the Health Regulation Process, who issued report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0085-2022, which indicates the following: "SITUATION FOUND. The second on-site inspection is carried out on February 7th of this year 2023, as recorded in inspection report N°018-2023 attached to the file. At 10:26 hours I appeared at the place and was attended by Mr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, ID: 303250035, in his capacity as director of the educational center Santa Cristina School, located 4 kilometers south of La Suiza plaza, Santa Cristina, La Suiza. The director indicates that, in October 2022, a meeting was held with the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE), Board of Directors, among others. According to his account, a tour of the facilities was conducted and the DIE took photographs of the site; as of the day of the visit, no other progress had been reported. Currently, the dining hall is not in use by decision of the board of directors due to the physical-sanitary conditions of the property. Upon entering the dining hall, deterioration in the roof, walls, and floors is evident. The director indicates that there has been a presence of pests such as bats and snakes have been found. Likewise, the director points out his concern about the lack of a perimeter mesh, due to the adjacency to a forested area and ravines, where there is a high risk for the students. Upon verifying the aspects of sanitary order N°0145-2017, the following is identified:

In addition to the above, inadequate management of wastewater (aguas servidas) is identified, a lack of stormwater management in the rear part of the dining hall, and the breaker box was found without a cover on the day of the visit. CONCLUSIONS. Of the total of 35 sanitary provisions issued in the mentioned sanitary order, compliance with 8 of these was determined during the visit, with the main deficiencies identified being changes in infrastructure, in the sanitary service, and in the dining hall. The dining hall is currently not functioning by decision of the board of directors due to its poor physical-sanitary conditions. According to the person attending, there is no timely follow-up by the DIE of the MEP, so it is not known exactly when the modifications ordered in the administrative act will be made." He states that, addressing the recommendations of the technical report MS-DRRSCE-DARSTIT-0085-2023, signed by Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, sanitary order No. 0038-2023 was issued to Mr. Javier Aguilar Montenegro, in his capacity as Legal Representative, which was notified on March 28, 2023. He explains that said order indicated the following: "The health authority orders you through this administrative act to proceed with the following: I. ACCESS. a. Accessibility according to Law 7600 on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities and its regulation. II. SANITARY SERVICES. a. Have at least one sanitary service with the following characteristics: Doors with a minimum width of 0.90 cm that open outward, toilet cubicles installed against one side of the back wall: minimum depth: 2.25 mts and minimum width 1.55 mts, installed at the center of the back wall: minimum depth: 2.25 mts and minimum width: 2.25 mts. b. Accessories such as: towel racks, wastebaskets, diaper-changing tables, and grab bars shall be installed at a maximum height of 0.90 mts. c. Mirrors shall be installed at a maximum height of their lower edge of 0.80 mts. d. It must have separate sanitary services for teaching and administrative staff, separated by sex and in good condition. III. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS. a. All doors must have a minimum width of 0.90 m. b. All buildings of the educational center must be connected by means of covered passages, complying with the stipulations of Law 7600. c. The access ramp for persons with disabilities must have the following characteristics: Minimum width of 1.20 m. Handrail or banister at 0.90 m from the finished floor level. Non-slip floor texture. d. The corridors must have a minimum obstacle-free width of 2.40 m for the first 400 m² of useful floor area, and it must be increased at a rate of 0.60 m for each additional 100.00 m or fraction thereof. e. The floors of corridors that are unprotected from the rain must be non-slip. IV. SAFETY CONDITIONS. a. The entire perimeter of the place must be closed. b. The Emergency Response Plan must be prepared, implemented in accordance with the provisions of Executive Decree No. 39502 - MP of November 10, 2015 "Standards for Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans for Work or Public Occupancy Centers". This plan must be updated every two years, or when the risk conditions have changed, and must be consistent with the characteristics and activity carried out in the establishment. c. Have emergency power for exit lighting. V. WASTE MANAGEMENT. a. Every generating entity must have and keep updated an Integrated Waste Management Program, in accordance with the provisions of Law 8839 on Integrated Waste Management and its regulation. Prepare and implement the Integrated Waste Management Program, as indicated in the General Regulation to the Law for Integrated Waste Management No. 37567- S-MINAET-H, Annex 1. b. Excreta, black water, gray water, and stormwater must be disposed of adequately and sanitarily in order to avoid contamination of the soil and natural sources of water for human use and consumption, the formation of vector breeding grounds and diseases, and air pollution through conditions that threaten its purity or quality. VI. DINING HALL AREA. a. All equipment or materials in disuse that may become an attraction and refuge for insects and rodents must be eliminated. b. The buildings must be in good physical and hygienic condition. c. The walls must be of impermeable material, smooth, easy to wash and disinfect, and light-colored; they must be in good condition of maintenance and hygiene. d. Windows must be provided with protection against insects or other animals. The protection system must be easily removable for cleaning and maintenance. e. Light sources must have protectors. f. Must have grease and oil traps, and they must be kept in good condition of operation and hygiene. g. A documented pest control plan must be developed and in execution. When pest control requires the application of pesticides, this must be carried out by trained personnel. A record of activities and applications that allows evidence of compliance must be kept. Products for pest control must be authorized by the Ministry of Health. When pest control is carried out by companies providing that service, these must be authorized by the Ministry of Health. h. Have a documented Hygiene and Disinfection Program, which includes the cleaning and disinfection procedures detailed in Article No. 60 of the Regulation for Public Food Services. Personnel assigned to the food preparation area must wear clean work clothes, hair covering, closed shoes of non-absorbent material. i. The breaker boxes must have a cover. j. The ceiling must be of solid construction, have a design and finish that prevents the accumulation of dirt; the materials used must be smooth and resistant to cleaning operations. The height between the ceiling and the floor of the establishments regulated herein must be greater than or equal to 2.50 meters." He specifies that a verification visit for the sanitary order was conducted on August 21, 2023, by Sofia Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, from which report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0596-2023 was issued and indicated the following: "SITUATION FOUND. The on-site inspection is carried out on August 21 of this year; at 10:00 hours I am received by Mr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, ID: 303250035, in his capacity as director. At the time of the visit, I am informed that no visit has been made by any official from the DIE, and they have also not received a timely response regarding the new administrative act issued. The student dining hall remains closed, given the risks in the infrastructure. CONCLUSIONS. The issued administrative act is not complied with; no modification or start of works is evident." He adds that, in compliance with what was ordered, an inspection visit will be scheduled, the conclusions of which will be notified to the Honorable Chamber in time according to the indications of the resolution.

4.- By a resolution issued at 8:28 a.m. on February 6, 2024, the Investigating Judge (Magistrado Instructor) requested evidence for a better resolution (prueba para mejor resolver) from Edwin Cervantes Montoya, in his capacity as Director of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba, in order to clarify the following: "a) Whether or not the inspection mentioned in the sixth point of the report was carried out and what its conclusions were, and b) whether the timeframes and actions reported by the authorities of the Ministry of Public Education (see attached documentation) are compatible or not with the instructions issued by the Ministry of Health, in compliance with what was ordered." 5.- By a brief received via the Chamber's email at 1:47 p.m. on February 9, 2024, Edwin Cervantes Montoya, in his capacity as Director of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba, reports under oath. He states that regarding point a), the inspection visit is scheduled for the week of February 12 to 16, and arrangements are being made for this visit to be accompanied by the Regional Engineer in order to have a more specific criterion from the same visit.

Regarding point b), the document provided by the Ministry of Public Education is under analysis by the official Sofía Cordero Núñez; once the corresponding analysis is completed, it will be brought to the attention of your honorable authority.

6.- By resolution issued at 8:25 a.m. on February 23, 2024, the Investigating Judge ordered evidence for better resolution (prueba para mejor resolver) from Edwin Cervantes Montoya, in his capacity as Director of the Health Governing Area (Área Rectora de Salud) of Turrialba, so that he would clarify the following: “a) Whether during the week of February 12 to 16, 2024 (as was communicated), the inspection indicated in point six of the report was carried out or not and what its conclusions were, and b) whether the deadlines and actions reported by the authorities of the Ministry of Public Education (see attached documentation) are compatible or not with the instructions issued by the Ministry of Health, in compliance with what was ordered.” 7.- By brief received via the Chamber's email at 11:26 a.m. on February 27, 2024, Edwin Cervantes Montoya reports under oath, in his capacity as Director of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba. He states that after the submission of report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-0184-2024, a visit was coordinated with the accompaniment of the Regional engineer. He indicates that the visit was carried out on February 13, 2023, by Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, together with Eng. Francisco Alfaro Chavarría, from the Health Governance Unit of the East Central Region, from which report No. MS-DRRSCEURS-0061-2024 was issued, stating the following: “Situation found. The Santa Cristina educational center was founded in 1981; it is a single-teacher school consisting of only one classroom and the student dining hall. This school has a population of 11 students and 4 administrative staff, including the teacher. During the inspection, the Physical-Sanitary Inspection Guide for Educational Use Buildings was used. Physical conditions. Structural elements. In general, the structural elements such as: beams, columns, subfloor slabs, and walls, observed in the various areas of the property, were in acceptable conditions. However, the absence of periodic maintenance in some of these elements was evident. The composition of the classroom and dining hall was observed to include various materials such as: concrete elements, masonry (blocks), steel elements, internal enclosure walls in lightweight materials such as: zinc sheets, wood, and “gypsum” or similar sheets. (…) The walls showed compliance with verticality, the horizontal elements (beams) showed no deflections, nor were columns with buckling observed. During the tour, no areas were detected in the property with the presence of cracks in structural elements such as columns and beams. On the other hand, damage was detected in elements such as trusses and purlins that formed the roof structure. The presence of cracks in the subfloor on one side of the property was also evident. (…) Non-structural elements. Some non-conformities were detected in the ceiling sheets, as they were found loose without proper fastening; specific areas without any ceiling and damage to the seals were also evident. (…) During the tour, no damage was detected in elements such as: doors, windows, or glass; in general, they were observed in acceptable conditions. No damage was observed in the electromechanical structures of various kinds either. Regarding the roof covering, an absence of periodic maintenance to prevent sheet corrosion and prolong its useful life was detected. (…) Electrical installation. The arrangement of the electric meter and main switch was observed. Several "breaker" boxes were also present; however, a non-conformity was detected in that one of these lacked its respective cover, in addition to being located quite close to the dining hall wash basin. (…) In general, electrical terminals were observed in good physical condition and firmly attached (switches, outlets, ceiling fixtures, lamps); the electrical wiring was properly channeled in conduits, and junction boxes with their respective covers were observed. Light fixtures with protection to prevent the detachment of fluorescent tubes were also observed. (…) Sanitary conditions. Wastewater. The disposal of wastewater (aguas residuales – aguas negras) from the educational center is to a septic tank according to what was reported by the director; however, it was not possible to locate it on the site during the inspection. During the inspection, some non-conformities related to wastewater were detected, mentioned as follows: Elements such as pipes and inspection boxes were observed to be in a poor state of conservation; the absence of maintenance and/or replacement of some of these mentioned elements was evident. It was also observed that the wastewater from wash basins was not disposed of in a sanitary manner; these waters were not conducted to any septic tank or other collector properly designed for such purpose; it was evident that they were directed to the same stormwater drainage system. (…) The sanitary ware was observed in acceptable conditions of conservation and maintenance; the sinks and toilets were in good condition. (…) The number of sanitary fixtures counted during the inspection was not adequate for the teaching level of the educational center according to the number of students (11). One toilet and one urinal for every 30 male students, one toilet for every 20 female students, one washbasin for every 60 students. The non-conformity stands, as only one sanitary fixture was found for all students, without separating female and male students. On the other hand, the number of drinking fountains was adequate according to the established regulations. One drinking fountain for every 100 students. Rainwater (aguas pluviales). In general terms, the management of rainwater was not compliant; non-compliances related to the deteriorated state of the system's components were found. In several sectors of the property, the drainage components for this rainwater were in poor condition; gutters, inspection boxes, damaged (or absent) downspout pipes were evident, as well as a general absence of maintenance. The previously mentioned non-conformity, the discharge of wastewater from wash basins into the stormwater drainage system, is also mentioned. (…) Potable water. According to what was reported, the potable water service for the property is provided continuously by the Santa Cristina ASADA. The educational center did not have an alternate tank for potable water storage. Surrounding conditions. According to what was observed during the tour and as confirmed by the director of the educational center, there has been no impact from flooding at the site, nor from landslides on the land where the property is located. As a relevant observation, the land does not have a perimeter enclosure such as a security mesh. According to what was mentioned by the director, months ago a robbery occurred at the educational center; some valuable items were stolen according to what was reported. Lighting and ventilation. It was observed that the existing classroom had good natural lighting, in addition to having light fixtures. It was also evident that this classroom had acceptable ventilation. (…) Ley 7600. According to what was observed during the tour, general non-compliance with the Regulation of Ley 7600 was evident. Non-conformities were detected related to different floor levels where there are no ramps, nor are the dimensions of the perimeter walkways met, in addition to non-conformities due to the absence of roofs on the entrance walkway, handrails, steep slopes, and surface finishing required by legislation. On the other hand, the only sanitary fixture observed did not show compliance with Ley 7600. The internal dimensions were not those indicated by the Regulation, nor did it comply as it did not have the required accessories. (…) Current condition of sanitary orders (órdenes sanitarias) No. 0145-2017 and No. 0038-2023. According to what was evidenced during the recent inspection tour, compliance with the instructions in the aforementioned sanitary orders has not been met to date. It should be noted that Eng. Rigoberto González Espinoza and Arch. Eduardo Camacho Vargas, both from the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) of the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), according to official letter DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023, dated December 21, 2023, presented to the Director of the DIE a schedule with all the activities to be carried out on said property, beginning in January 2024 and ending in July 2025. Legal Framework. 1. Directive No. DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S, inter-ministerial coordination for addressing sanitary orders. 2. General Health Law (Ley General de Salud), Law No. 5395. 3. Organic Law of the Ministry of Health (Ley Orgánica del Ministerio de Salud), Law No. 5412. 4. General Public Administration Law (Ley General de la Administración Pública), No. 6227. 5. Ley 7600 “Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities in Costa Rica” (Igualdad de Oportunidades para las Personas con Discapacidad en Costa Rica) and its Regulation. Conclusions. 1. Structural and non-structural elements. Non-conformities were detected in the condition of a sector of the roof structure; damage was observed in elements such as trusses and purlins that formed said structure. Lack of maintenance of the zinc sheets on the roof covering was observed. The presence of cracks in the subfloor on one side of the property, absence of ceiling sheets, and damaged seals in some areas were also evident. 2. Electrical system. It was detected that one of the breaker boxes lacked a cover, in addition to being located quite close to the dining hall wash basin, a condition that presented a potential risk. 3. Wastewater. It was not possible to locate the septic tank on the site, so the non-conformity stands. Elements such as pipes and inspection boxes were observed, which were damaged; the absence of maintenance and/or replacement of some of these elements was evident. The waters from the wash basins were not disposed of in a sanitary manner; these waters were not conducted to any septic tank or other collector properly designed for such purpose; they were directed to the same stormwater drainage system. 4. Rainwater system. Non-compliances were found related to the deteriorated state of the system's components. In several sectors of the property, the drainage components for this rainwater were in poor condition; the following were evident: gutters, inspection boxes, damaged (or absent) downspout pipes, as well as a general absence of maintenance. 5. Potable water. The educational center did not have an alternate tank for potable water storage. 6. Surroundings, security of the property. The land does not have a perimeter enclosure such as a security mesh. The theft of some valuable items has already occurred, according to what was reported by the director. It also represents a considerable risk to the integrity of the student body due to exiting the secure perimeter within the educational center. 7. Ley 7600. General non-compliance; non-conformities were detected related to different floor levels where there are no ramps, nor are the dimensions of the perimeter walkways met, in addition to the absence of roofs on the entrance walkway, handrails, there are steep slopes, and the surface finishing does not adhere to universal accessibility legislation. The only sanitary fixture observed did not show compliance with Ley 7600; the internal dimensions were not those indicated by the Regulation, nor did it comply as it did not have the required accessories. 8. Condition of compliance with sanitary orders. It was evident during the inspection tour that, currently, what is indicated in sanitary orders No. 0145-2017 and No. 0038-2023 has not been complied with. Recommendations. This report presents the technical assessments based on the inspection carried out on Tuesday, February 13, 2023. The Health Governing Area must carry out the administrative actions that, within its competence, it deems most appropriate to guarantee the protection of the health and safety of the people. Health Governing Area of Turrialba. According to what was observed during the recent inspection of the educational center, and given that issuing a new sanitary order requesting a remedial plan would not add greater content to the current process, since recently (December 2023) the DIE pronounced on the attention to said educational center. Furthermore, what was already indicated in sanitary order No. 0038-2023, dated March 28, 2023, also gathers the non-conformities detected in the past, according to sanitary order No. 0145-2017. The following is recommended to the Health Governing Area of Turrialba: - Request the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) to deliver the attention schedule for the Santa Cristina school educational center, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. The DIE will be requested semiannually to send a progress report, evidencing compliance with the activity schedule delivered in December 2023, this to give due follow-up in compliance with what is ordered by the Ministry of Health. - Respond to the document from the Constitutional Chamber dated February 6, 2024, regarding the amparo appeal process, where they request to inform the Court whether the deadlines and actions reported by the authorities of the MEP are compatible or not with the instructions issued by the Ministry of Health, in compliance with what was ordered in process 22-017352-0007-CO.” He relates that regarding point b of the resolution, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, proceeded to review the documents provided, issuing report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0101-2024, which indicated the following: “Upon conducting the review of official letter DVM-ADIE-DM-0874-2023, signed by Eng. Rigoberto González Espinoza, from the Maintenance Department of the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure, it is indicated that for the project management process, said department indicates a period of 3 months. Regarding the preparation, review, and authorization of preliminary studies, preliminary projects, construction plans, and budget, there is a period of approximately 2 months (March-April 2024). Once the process is completed, they indicate that the request for resources to execute the work will be made in September 2024, and the start of works will take place in March 2025. Given this situation, the DIE requests these deadlines with justifications for what the preliminary project entails and the legal process that proceeds, and indicates that the time to seek economic resources for the execution of the work requires around 6 months. Likewise, it is mentioned that the mentioned deadlines correspond to administrative contracting procedures for works, consultancies, among others, in which an eventuality could arise. While it is true that the schedule is presented extemporaneously, according to the documentary review, the deadlines indicated in the schedule present justifications for their execution. These deadlines are duly justified and reviewed by competent and qualified personnel of the Ministry of Public Education, who are familiar with the legal and administrative process involved in project execution in public administration. In addition to the foregoing, the joint visit was carried out with Eng. Francisco José Alfaro Chavarría from the Health Governance Unit of the East Central Region, as recorded in technical report MS-DRRSCE-URS-0061-2024, where a series of non-conformities were determined, mainly in the absence of maintenance of the infrastructural elements that make up the property. Despite the fact that these inconsistencies must be duly corrected to ensure the safety of users and collaborators, the professional did not detect a non-conformity that represents an imminent risk. However, it is important to clarify that the risk exists and that the administrative act (acto administrativo) was filed since 2018, as evidenced in the case file, so it is considered relevant to take into consideration the indication in the recommendations section of the aforementioned technical report, where it indicates: 'Request the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) to deliver the attention schedule for the Santa Cristina school educational center, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. The DIE will be requested semiannually to send a progress report on the compliance with the activity schedule delivered in December 2023, this to give due follow-up in compliance with what is ordered by the Ministry of Health.' 1. CONCLUSIONS. In accordance with the documentation presented by the DIE and the joint visit with the regional engineer and the Health Governing Area, it is determined that the deadlines indicated by the DIE are supported by the basis and justifications provided by the professionals of that institution. The presentation of the schedule is made extemporaneously; however, as it was evidenced during the joint visit that the inconsistencies remain on the site, the presentation and execution of the schedule within the indicated deadlines constitute an important input for the well-being of the student body and administrative staff considering the current situation of the educational center.” He comments that considering the reports presented, it is determined that the main discrepancies lie in the lack of maintenance of the infrastructural elements of the property. Although these deficiencies must be duly corrected to guarantee the safety of the users and staff, the professionals in charge of the inspections have not identified any non-conformity that represents an imminent risk. However, the risk persists and the administrative act was issued in 2018, as recorded in the case file. Therefore, the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) will be requested to provide an attention schedule for the educational center. It will be required that said schedule be accompanied by a semiannual progress report on the compliance with the programmed activities delivered in December 2023. He adds that this measure will be implemented in order to guarantee adequate follow-up of the situation.

8.- In the procedures followed, the legal requirements have been observed.

Drafted by Judge Delgado Faith; and,

Considering:

I.- Object. The Minister and the Director of Educational Infrastructure, both from the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), as well as the Director of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba, detail the actions taken in order to comply with what was ordered by this Chamber in judgment No. 2023-001061, issued at 9:20 a.m. on January 20, 2023. They also requested a 19-month extension for compliance.

II.- Proven facts. Of relevance for this resolution, the following facts are deemed proven:

• 1)By judgment No. 2023-001061, issued at 9:20 a.m. on January 20, 2023, the Chamber ordered the following: “The appeal is granted. Luis Fernando Gómez Cordero, in his capacity as Acting Director of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba of the Ministry of Health, or whoever occupies that position in his place, is ordered to carry out all actions within the scope of his competencies and coordinate what is necessary so that: a) within a period of ONE MONTH, counted from the notification of this judgment, a new inspection is carried out and compliance deadlines are established for each of the aspects indicated in sanitary order No. 145-2017 and; b) follow-up on the full compliance thereof is carried out. Anna Katharina Müller Castro and Álvaro Mata Leitón, in their respective capacities as Minister and Director of Educational Infrastructure, both of the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), or whoever occupies those positions in their place, are ordered to carry out all actions within the scope of their competencies and coordinate what is necessary so that: a) sanitary order No. 145-2017 is complied with, within the deadlines and according to the requirements established by the Ministry of Health based on the new ordered inspection and; b) while the sanitary order is being complied with in the stated terms, all pertinent measures are adopted to guarantee the health and integrity of the educational community, and the continuity of the educational process. The respondent authorities are warned that in accordance with article 71 of the Law of this Jurisdiction, imprisonment of three months to two years, or a fine of twenty to sixty days, will be imposed on whoever receives an order that must be complied with or enforced, issued in an amparo appeal and does not comply with it or does not enforce it, provided that the offense is not more severely punished. The State is condemned to pay the costs, damages, and losses caused by the facts that serve as the basis for this declaration, which will be liquidated in the execution of the judgment of the administrative contentious court. Let it be notified” (the case file).
• 2)On January 23, 2023, the authorities of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba of the Ministry of Health and of the Ministry of Public Education were notified of judgment No. 2023-001061, issued at 9:20 a.m. on January 20, 2023 (see notification records added to the digital case file).
• 3)On January 25, 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba, conducted a follow-up visit for sanitary order No. 0145-2017, and issued report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0045-2023, which indicated the following: “SITUATION FOUND. The on-site inspection was carried out on January 25, 2023, as recorded in inspection record No. 009-2023 attached to the case file. At 09:30 a.m., I arrived at the place where the entrance is open to the facilities; however, the classrooms and dining hall are closed, and no person is present this day. Despite not being able to locate a person during the visit, a tour of the place was conducted, and the following was found: • The sanitary fixture is open, so it is determined that it still does not comply with the dimensions indicated in Ley 7600 on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities. • Likewise, the doors do not have the minimum width of 0.90 cm. • The passage from the entrance gate to the school entrance is not properly covered. • The perimeter has not been closed. • The hallways do not have the minimum width of 1.20 cm, in accordance with the Regulation of Ley 7600. CONCLUSIONS. Full compliance with all the sanitary provisions of the sanitary order could not be verified; however, upon touring the facilities, non-compliance in various structural aspects that have not been modified in accordance with what is indicated in the administrative act is evident. RECOMMENDATION. Reschedule the visit to be able to conduct the complete tour of the entire educational center to verify the pending points of the sanitary order” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 4)On February 7, 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba, conducted an inspection visit and issued report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0085-2022, which indicated the following: “SITUATION FOUND. The second on-site inspection was carried out on February 7 of this year 2023, as recorded in inspection record No. 018-2023 attached to the case file. At 10:26 a.m., I arrived at the place and was attended by Mr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, ID: 303250035, in his capacity as director of the Santa Cristina School educational center, located 4 kilometers south of the plaza of La Suiza, Santa Cristina, La Suiza. The director indicates that, in October 2022, a meeting was held jointly with the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE), the Board of Directors, among others. According to his account, a tour of the facilities was conducted, and the DIE took photographs of the site; as of the day of the visit, no further progress had been reported. Currently, the dining hall is not in use by decision of the board of directors due to the physical-sanitary conditions of the property. Upon entering the dining hall, deterioration is evident in the roof, walls, and floors. The director indicates that there has been a presence of pests such as bats, and snakes have been found. Likewise, the director points out his concern about the lack of a perimeter mesh, due to the adjacency to a forested area and ravines, where there is a high risk for the students (…) In addition to the above, inadequate management of wastewater (aguas servidas) was identified, a lack of rainwater management at the back of the dining hall, and the breaker box was found without a cover on the day of the visit. CONCLUSIONS. Of the total of 35 sanitary provisions issued in the aforementioned sanitary order, compliance with 8 of these was determined during the visit, with the main outstanding deficiencies identified as changes in infrastructure, in the sanitary fixture, and the dining hall. The dining hall is currently not functioning by decision of the board of directors due to its poor physical-sanitary conditions. According to the person attending, there is no timely follow-up by the DIE of the MEP, so it is unknown exactly when the modifications ordered in the administrative act will be carried out” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 5)On February 13, 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, together with Francisco Alfaro Chavarría, from the Health Governance Unit of the East Central Region, conducted a visit and issued report No. MS-DRRSCEURS-0061-2024, which indicated the following: “Situation found. The Santa Cristina educational center was founded in 1981; it is a single-teacher school consisting of only one classroom and the student dining hall. This school has a population of 11 students and 4 administrative staff, including the teacher. During the inspection, the Physical-Sanitary Inspection Guide for Educational Use Buildings was used. Physical conditions. Structural elements. In general, the structural elements such as: beams, columns, subfloor slabs, and walls, observed in the various areas of the property, were in acceptable conditions. However, the absence of periodic maintenance in some of these elements was evident. The composition of the classroom and dining hall was observed to include various materials such as: concrete elements, masonry (blocks), steel elements, internal enclosure walls in lightweight materials such as: zinc sheets, wood, and “gypsum” or similar sheets. (…) The walls showed compliance with verticality, the horizontal elements (beams) showed no deflections, nor were columns with buckling observed. During the tour, no areas were detected in the property with the presence of cracks in structural elements such as columns and beams. On the other hand, damage was detected in elements such as trusses and purlins that formed the roof structure. The presence of cracks in the subfloor on one side of the property was also evident. (…) Non-structural elements. Some non-conformities were detected in the ceiling sheets, as they were found loose without proper fastening; specific areas without any ceiling and damage to the seals were also evident. (…) During the tour, no damage was detected in elements such as: doors, windows, or glass; in general, they were observed in acceptable conditions. No damage was observed in the electromechanical structures of various kinds either. Regarding the roof covering, an absence of periodic maintenance to prevent sheet corrosion and prolong its useful life was detected. (…) Electrical installation. The arrangement of the electric meter and main switch was observed. Several "breaker" boxes were also present; however, a non-conformity was detected in that one of these lacked its respective cover, in addition to being located quite close to the dining hall wash basin. (…) In general, electrical terminals were observed in good physical condition and firmly attached (switches, outlets, ceiling fixtures, lamps); the electrical wiring was properly channeled in conduits, and junction boxes with their respective covers were observed. Light fixtures with protection to prevent the detachment of fluorescent tubes were also observed. (…) Sanitary conditions. Wastewater. The disposal of wastewater (aguas residuales – aguas negras) from the educational center is to a septic tank according to what was reported by the director; however, it was not possible to locate it on the site during the inspection. During the inspection, some non-conformities related to wastewater were detected, mentioned as follows: Elements such as pipes and inspection boxes were observed to be in a poor state of conservation; the absence of maintenance and/or replacement of some of these mentioned elements was evident. It was also observed that the wastewater from wash basins was not disposed of in a sanitary manner; these waters were not conducted to any septic tank or other collector properly designed for such purpose; it was evident that they were directed to the same stormwater drainage system. (…) The sanitary ware was observed in acceptable conditions of conservation and maintenance; the sinks and toilets were in good condition. (…) The number of sanitary fixtures counted during the inspection was not adequate for the teaching level of the educational center according to the number of students (11). One toilet and one urinal for every 30 male students, one toilet for every 20 female students, one washbasin for every 60 students. The non-conformity stands, as only one sanitary fixture was found for all students, without separating female and male students. On the other hand, the number of drinking fountains was adequate according to the established regulations. One drinking fountain for every 100 students. Rainwater. In general terms, the management of rainwater was not compliant; non-compliances related to the deteriorated state of the system's components were found. In several sectors of the property, the drainage components for this rainwater were in poor condition; gutters, inspection boxes, damaged (or absent) downspout pipes were evident, as well as a general absence of maintenance. The previously mentioned non-conformity, the discharge of wastewater from wash basins into the stormwater drainage system, is also mentioned. (…) Potable water. According to what was reported, the potable water service for the property is provided continuously by the Santa Cristina ASADA. The educational center did not have an alternate tank for potable water storage. Surrounding conditions. According to what was observed during the tour and as confirmed by the director of the educational center, there has been no impact from flooding at the site, nor from landslides on the land where the property is located. As a relevant observation, the land does not have a perimeter enclosure such as a security mesh. According to what was mentioned by the director, months ago a robbery occurred at the educational center; some valuable items were stolen according to what was reported. Lighting and ventilation. It was observed that the existing classroom had good natural lighting, in addition to having light fixtures. It was also evident that this classroom had acceptable ventilation. (…) Ley 7600. According to what was observed during the tour, general non-compliance with the Regulation of Ley 7600 was evident. Non-conformities were detected related to different floor levels where there are no ramps, nor are the dimensions of the perimeter walkways met, in addition to non-conformities due to the absence of roofs on the entrance walkway, handrails, steep slopes, and surface finishing required by legislation. On the other hand, the only sanitary fixture observed did not show compliance with Ley 7600. The internal dimensions were not those indicated by the Regulation, nor did it comply as it did not have the required accessories. (…) Current condition of sanitary orders No. 0145-2017 and No. 0038-2023. According to what was evidenced during the recent inspection tour, compliance with the instructions in the aforementioned sanitary orders has not been met to date. It should be noted that Eng. Rigoberto González Espinoza and Arch. Eduardo Camacho Vargas, both from the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) of the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), according to official letter DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023, dated December 21, 2023, presented to the Director of the DIE a schedule with all the activities to be carried out on said property, beginning in January 2024 and ending in July 2025. Legal Framework. 1. Directive No. DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S, inter-ministerial coordination for addressing sanitary orders. 2. General Health Law, Law No. 5395. 3. Organic Law of the Ministry of Health, Law No. 5412. 4. General Public Administration Law, No. 6227. 5. Ley 7600 “Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities in Costa Rica” and its Regulation. Conclusions. 1. Structural and non-structural elements. Non-conformities were detected in the condition of a sector of the roof structure; damage was observed in elements such as trusses and purlins that formed said structure. Lack of maintenance of the zinc sheets on the roof covering was observed. The presence of cracks in the subfloor on one side of the property, absence of ceiling sheets, and damaged seals in some areas were also evident. 2. Electrical system. It was detected that one of the breaker boxes lacked a cover, in addition to being located quite close to the dining hall wash basin, a condition that presented a potential risk. 3. Wastewater. It was not possible to locate the septic tank on the site, so the non-conformity stands. Elements such as pipes and inspection boxes were observed, which were damaged; the absence of maintenance and/or replacement of some of these elements was evident. The waters from the wash basins were not disposed of in a sanitary manner; these waters were not conducted to any septic tank or other collector properly designed for such purpose; they were directed to the same stormwater drainage system. 4. Rainwater system. Non-compliances were found related to the deteriorated state of the system's components. In several sectors of the property, the drainage components for this rainwater were in poor condition; the following were evident: gutters, inspection boxes, damaged (or absent) downspout pipes, as well as a general absence of maintenance. 5. Potable water. The educational center did not have an alternate tank for potable water storage. 6. Surroundings, security of the property. The land does not have a perimeter enclosure such as a security mesh. The theft of some valuable items has already occurred, according to what was reported by the director. It also represents a considerable risk to the integrity of the student body due to exiting the secure perimeter within the educational center. 7. Ley 7600. General non-compliance; non-conformities were detected related to different floor levels where there are no ramps, nor are the dimensions of the perimeter walkways met, in addition to the absence of roofs on the entrance walkway, handrails, there are steep slopes, and the surface finishing does not adhere to universal accessibility legislation. The only sanitary fixture observed did not show compliance with Ley 7600; the internal dimensions were not those indicated by the Regulation, nor did it comply as it did not have the required accessories. 8. Condition of compliance with sanitary orders. It was evident during the inspection tour that, currently, what is indicated in sanitary orders No. 0145-2017 and No. 0038-2023 has not been complied with. Recommendations. This report presents the technical assessments based on the inspection carried out on Tuesday, February 13, 2023. The Health Governing Area must carry out the administrative actions that, within its competence, it deems most appropriate to guarantee the protection of the health and safety of the people. Health Governing Area of Turrialba. According to what was observed during the recent inspection of the educational center, and given that issuing a new sanitary order requesting a remedial plan would not add greater content to the current process, since recently (December 2023) the DIE pronounced on the attention to said educational center. Furthermore, what was already indicated in sanitary order No. 0038-2023, dated March 28, 2023, also gathers the non-conformities detected in the past, according to sanitary order No. 0145-2017. The following is recommended to the Health Governing Area of Turrialba: - Request the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) to deliver the attention schedule for the Santa Cristina school educational center, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. The DIE will be requested semiannually to send a progress report, evidencing compliance with the activity schedule delivered in December 2023, this to give due follow-up in compliance with what is ordered by the Ministry of Health. - Respond to the document from the Constitutional Chamber dated February 6, 2024, regarding the amparo appeal process, where they request to inform the Court whether the deadlines and actions reported by the authorities of the MEP are compatible or not with the instructions issued by the Ministry of Health, in compliance with what was ordered in process 22-017352-0007-CO.” He relates that regarding point b of the resolution, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, proceeded to review the documents provided, issuing report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0101-2024, which indicated the following: “Upon conducting the review of official letter DVM-ADIE-DM-0874-2023, signed by Eng. Rigoberto González Espinoza, from the Maintenance Department of the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure, it is indicated that for the project management process, said department indicates a period of 3 months. Regarding the preparation, review, and authorization of preliminary studies, preliminary projects, construction plans, and budget, there is a period of approximately 2 months (March-April 2024). Once the process is completed, they indicate that the request for resources to execute the work will be made in September 2024, and the start of works will take place in March 2025. Given this situation, the DIE requests these deadlines with justifications for what the preliminary project entails and the legal process that proceeds, and indicates that the time to seek economic resources for the execution of the work requires around 6 months. Likewise, it is mentioned that the mentioned deadlines correspond to administrative contracting procedures for works, consultancies, among others, in which an eventuality could arise. While it is true that the schedule is presented extemporaneously, according to the documentary review, the deadlines indicated in the schedule present justifications for their execution. These deadlines are duly justified and reviewed by competent and qualified personnel of the Ministry of Public Education, who are familiar with the legal and administrative process involved in project execution in public administration. In addition to the foregoing, the joint visit was carried out with Eng. Francisco José Alfaro Chavarría from the Health Governance Unit of the East Central Region, as recorded in technical report MS-DRRSCE-URS-0061-2024, where a series of non-conformities were determined, mainly in the absence of maintenance of the infrastructural elements that make up the property. Despite the fact that these inconsistencies must be duly corrected to ensure the safety of users and collaborators, the professional did not detect a non-conformity that represents an imminent risk. However, it is important to clarify that the risk exists and that the administrative act was filed since 2018, as evidenced in the case file, so it is considered relevant to take into consideration the indication in the recommendations section of the aforementioned technical report, where it indicates: 'Request the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) to deliver the attention schedule for the Santa Cristina school educational center, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. The DIE will be requested semiannually to send a progress report on the compliance with the activity schedule delivered in December 2023, this to give due follow-up in compliance with what is ordered by the Ministry of Health.' 1. CONCLUSIONS. In accordance with the documentation presented by the DIE and the joint visit with the regional engineer and the Health Governing Area, it is determined that the deadlines indicated by the DIE are supported by the basis and justifications provided by the professionals of that institution. The presentation of the schedule is made extemporaneously; however, as it was evidenced during the joint visit that the inconsistencies remain on the site, the presentation and execution of the schedule within the indicated deadlines constitute an important input for the well-being of the student body and administrative staff considering the current situation of the educational center.” He comments that considering the reports presented, it is determined that the main discrepancies lie in the lack of maintenance of the infrastructural elements of the property. Although these deficiencies must be duly corrected to guarantee the safety of the users and staff, the professionals in charge of the inspections have not identified any non-conformity that represents an imminent risk. However, the risk persists and the administrative act was issued in 2018, as recorded in the case file. Therefore, the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) will be requested to provide an attention schedule for the educational center. It will be required that said schedule be accompanied by a semiannual progress report on the compliance with the programmed activities delivered in December 2023. He adds that this measure will be implemented in order to guarantee adequate follow-up of the situation.
• 4)On January 25, 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba, conducted a follow-up visit for sanitary order No. 0145-2017, and issued report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0045-2023, which indicated the following: “SITUATION FOUND. The on-site inspection was carried out on January 25, 2023, as recorded in inspection record No. 009-2023 attached to the case file. At 09:30 a.m., I arrived at the place where the entrance is open to the facilities; however, the classrooms and dining hall are closed, and no person is present this day. Despite not being able to locate a person during the visit, a tour of the place was conducted, and the following was found: • The sanitary fixture is open, so it is determined that it still does not comply with the dimensions indicated in Ley 7600 on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities. • Likewise, the doors do not have the minimum width of 0.90 cm. • The passage from the entrance gate to the school entrance is not properly covered. • The perimeter has not been closed. • The hallways do not have the minimum width of 1.20 cm, in accordance with the Regulation of Ley 7600. CONCLUSIONS. Full compliance with all the sanitary provisions of the sanitary order could not be verified; however, upon touring the facilities, non-compliance in various structural aspects that have not been modified in accordance with what is indicated in the administrative act is evident. RECOMMENDATION. Reschedule the visit to be able to conduct the complete tour of the entire educational center to verify the pending points of the sanitary order” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 5)On February 7, 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process of the Health Governing Area of Turrialba, conducted an inspection visit and issued report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0085-2022, which indicated the following: “SITUATION FOUND. The second on-site inspection was carried out on February 7 of this year 2023, as recorded in inspection record No. 018-2023 attached to the case file. At 10:26 a.m., I arrived at the place and was attended by Mr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, ID: 303250035, in his capacity as director of the Santa Cristina School educational center, located 4 kilometers south of the plaza of La Suiza, Santa Cristina, La Suiza. The director indicates that, in October 2022, a meeting was held jointly with the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE), the Board of Directors, among others. According to his account, a tour of the facilities was conducted, and the DIE took photographs of the site; as of the day of the visit, no further progress had been reported. Currently, the dining hall is not in use by decision of the board of directors due to the physical-sanitary conditions of the property. Upon entering the dining hall, deterioration is evident in the roof, walls, and floors. The director indicates that there has been a presence of pests such as bats, and snakes have been found. Likewise, the director points out his concern about the lack of a perimeter mesh, due to the adjacency to a forested area and ravines, where there is a high risk for the students (…) In addition to the above, inadequate management of wastewater (aguas servidas) was identified, a lack of rainwater management at the back of the dining hall, and the breaker box was found without a cover on the day of the visit. CONCLUSIONS. Of the total of 35 sanitary provisions issued in the aforementioned sanitary order, compliance with 8 of these was determined during the visit, with the main outstanding deficiencies identified as changes in infrastructure, in the sanitary fixture, and the dining hall. The dining hall is currently not functioning by decision of the board of directors due to its poor physical-sanitary conditions. According to the person attending, there is no timely follow-up by the DIE of the MEP, so it is unknown exactly when the modifications ordered in the administrative act will be carried out” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 6)On February 13, 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, together with Francisco Alfaro Chavarría, from the Health Governance Unit of the East Central Region, conducted a visit and issued report No. MS-DRRSCEURS-0061-2024, which indicated the following: “Situation found. The Santa Cristina educational center was founded in 1981; it is a single-teacher school consisting of only one classroom and the student dining hall. This school has a population of 11 students and 4 administrative staff, including the teacher. During the inspection, the Physical-Sanitary Inspection Guide for Educational Use Buildings was used. Physical conditions. Structural elements. In general, the structural elements such as: beams, columns, subfloor slabs, and walls, observed in the various areas of the property, were in acceptable conditions. However, the absence of periodic maintenance in some of these elements was evident. The composition of the classroom and dining hall was observed to include various materials such as: concrete elements, masonry (blocks), steel elements, internal enclosure walls in lightweight materials such as: zinc sheets, wood, and “gypsum” or similar sheets. (…) The walls showed compliance with verticality, the horizontal elements (beams) showed no deflections, nor were columns with buckling observed. During the tour, no areas were detected in the property with the presence of cracks in structural elements such as columns and beams. On the other hand, damage was detected in elements such as trusses and purlins that formed the roof structure. The presence of cracks in the subfloor on one side of the property was also evident. (…) Non-structural elements. Some non-conformities were detected in the ceiling sheets, as they were found loose without proper fastening; specific areas without any ceiling and damage to the seals were also evident. (…) During the tour, no damage was detected in elements such as: doors, windows, or glass; in general, they were observed in acceptable conditions. No damage was observed in the electromechanical structures of various kinds either. Regarding the roof covering, an absence of periodic maintenance to prevent sheet corrosion and prolong its useful life was detected. (…) Electrical installation. The arrangement of the electric meter and main switch was observed. Several "breaker" boxes were also present; however, a non-conformity was detected in that one of these lacked its respective cover, in addition to being located quite close to the dining hall wash basin. (…) In general, electrical terminals were observed in good physical condition and firmly attached (switches, outlets, ceiling fixtures, lamps); the electrical wiring was properly channeled in conduits, and junction boxes with their respective covers were observed. Light fixtures with protection to prevent the detachment of fluorescent tubes were also observed. (…) Sanitary conditions. Wastewater. The disposal of wastewater (aguas residuales – aguas negras) from the educational center is to a septic tank according to what was reported by the director; however, it was not possible to locate it on the site during the inspection. During the inspection, some non-conformities related to wastewater were detected, mentioned as follows: Elements such as pipes and inspection boxes were observed to be in a poor state of conservation; the absence of maintenance and/or replacement of some of these mentioned elements was evident. It was also observed that the wastewater from wash basins was not disposed of in a sanitary manner; these waters were not conducted to any septic tank or other collector properly designed for such purpose; it was evident that they were directed to the same stormwater drainage system. (…) The sanitary ware was observed in acceptable conditions of conservation and maintenance; the sinks and toilets were in good condition. (…) The number of sanitary fixtures counted during the inspection was not adequate for the teaching level of the educational center according to the number of students (11). One toilet and one urinal for every 30 male students, one toilet for every 20 female students, one washbasin for every 60 students. The non-conformity stands, as only one sanitary fixture was found for all students, without separating female and male students. On the other hand, the number of drinking fountains was adequate according to the established regulations. One drinking fountain for every 100 students. Rainwater. In general terms, the management of rainwater was not compliant; non-compliances related to the deteriorated state of the system's components were found. In several sectors of the property, the drainage components for this rainwater were in poor condition; gutters, inspection boxes, damaged (or absent) downspout pipes were evident, as well as a general absence of maintenance. The previously mentioned non-conformity, the discharge of wastewater from wash basins into the stormwater drainage system, is also mentioned. (…) Potable water. According to what was reported, the potable water service for the property is provided continuously by the Santa Cristina ASADA. The educational center did not have an alternate tank for potable water storage. Surrounding conditions. According to what was observed during the tour and as confirmed by the director of the educational center, there has been no impact from flooding at the site, nor from landslides on the land where the property is located. As a relevant observation, the land does not have a perimeter enclosure such as a security mesh. According to what was mentioned by the director, months ago a robbery occurred at the educational center; some valuable items were stolen according to what was reported. Lighting and ventilation. It was observed that the existing classroom had good natural lighting, in addition to having light fixtures. It was also evident that this classroom had acceptable ventilation. (…) Ley 7600. According to what was observed during the tour, general non-compliance with the Regulation of Ley 7600 was evident. Non-conformities were detected related to different floor levels where there are no ramps, nor are the dimensions of the perimeter walkways met, in addition to non-conformities due to the absence of roofs on the entrance walkway, handrails, steep slopes, and surface finishing required by legislation. On the other hand, the only sanitary fixture observed did not show compliance with Ley 7600. The internal dimensions were not those indicated by the Regulation, nor did it comply as it did not have the required accessories. (…) Current condition of sanitary orders No. 0145-2017 and No. 0038-2023. According to what was evidenced during the recent inspection tour, compliance with the instructions in the aforementioned sanitary orders has not been met to date. It should be noted that Eng. Rigoberto González Espinoza and Arch. Eduardo Camacho Vargas, both from the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) of the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), according to official letter DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023, dated December 21, 2023, presented to the Director of the DIE a schedule with all the activities to be carried out on said property, beginning in January 2024 and ending in July 2025. Legal Framework. 1. Directive No. DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S, inter-ministerial coordination for addressing sanitary orders. 2. General Health Law, Law No. 5395. 3. Organic Law of the Ministry of Health, Law No. 5412. 4. General Public Administration Law, No. 6227. 5. Ley 7600 “Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities in Costa Rica” and its Regulation. Conclusions. 1. Structural and non-structural elements. Non-conformities were detected in the condition of a sector of the roof structure; damage was observed in elements such as trusses and purlins that formed said structure. Lack of maintenance of the zinc sheets on the roof covering was observed. The presence of cracks in the subfloor on one side of the property, absence of ceiling sheets, and damaged seals in some areas were also evident. 2. Electrical system. It was detected that one of the breaker boxes lacked a cover, in addition to being located quite close to the dining hall wash basin, a condition that presented a potential risk. 3. Wastewater. It was not possible to locate the septic tank on the site, so the non-conformity stands. Elements such as pipes and inspection boxes were observed, which were damaged; the absence of maintenance and/or replacement of some of these elements was evident. The waters from the wash basins were not disposed of in a sanitary manner; these waters were not conducted to any septic tank or other collector properly designed for such purpose; they were directed to the same stormwater drainage system. 4. Rainwater system. Non-compliances were found related to the deteriorated state of the system's components. In several sectors of the property, the drainage components for this rainwater were in poor condition; the following were evident: gutters, inspection boxes, damaged (or absent) downspout pipes, as well as a general absence of maintenance. 5. Potable water. The educational center did not have an alternate tank for potable water storage. 6. Surroundings, security of the property. The land does not have a perimeter enclosure such as a security mesh. The theft of some valuable items has already occurred, according to what was reported by the director. It also represents a considerable risk to the integrity of the student body due to exiting the secure perimeter within the educational center. 7. Ley 7600. General non-compliance; non-conformities were detected related to different floor levels where there are no ramps, nor are the dimensions of the perimeter walkways met, in addition to the absence of roofs on the entrance walkway, handrails, there are steep slopes, and the surface finishing does not adhere to universal accessibility legislation. The only sanitary fixture observed did not show compliance with Ley 7600; the internal dimensions were not those indicated by the Regulation, nor did it comply as it did not have the required accessories. 8. Condition of compliance with sanitary orders. It was evident during the inspection tour that, currently, what is indicated in sanitary orders No. 0145-2017 and No. 0038-2023 has not been complied with. Recommendations. This report presents the technical assessments based on the inspection carried out on Tuesday, February 13, 2023. The Health Governing Area must carry out the administrative actions that, within its competence, it deems most appropriate to guarantee the protection of the health and safety of the people. Health Governing Area of Turrialba. According to what was observed during the recent inspection of the educational center, and given that issuing a new sanitary order requesting a remedial plan would not add greater content to the current process, since recently (December 2023) the DIE pronounced on the attention to said educational center. Furthermore, what was already indicated in sanitary order No. 0038-2023, dated March 28, 2023, also gathers the non-conformities detected in the past, according to sanitary order No. 0145-2017. The following is recommended to the Health Governing Area of Turrialba: - Request the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) to deliver the attention schedule for the Santa Cristina school educational center, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. The DIE will be requested semiannually to send a progress report, evidencing compliance with the activity schedule delivered in December 2023, this to give due follow-up in compliance with what is ordered by the Ministry of Health. - Respond to the document from the Constitutional Chamber dated February 6, 2024, regarding the amparo appeal process, where they request to inform the Court whether the deadlines and actions reported by the authorities of the MEP are compatible or not with the instructions issued by the Ministry of Health, in compliance with what was ordered in process 22-017352-0007-CO.” He relates that regarding point b of the resolution, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, proceeded to review the documents provided, issuing report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0101-2024, which indicated the following: “Upon conducting the review of official letter DVM-ADIE-DM-0874-2023, signed by Eng. Rigoberto González Espinoza, from the Maintenance Department of the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure, it is indicated that for the project management process, said department indicates a period of 3 months. Regarding the preparation, review, and authorization of preliminary studies, preliminary projects, construction plans, and budget, there is a period of approximately 2 months (March-April 2024). Once the process is completed, they indicate that the request for resources to execute the work will be made in September 2024, and the start of works will take place in March 2025. Given this situation, the DIE requests these deadlines with justifications for what the preliminary project entails and the legal process that proceeds, and indicates that the time to seek economic resources for the execution of the work requires around 6 months. Likewise, it is mentioned that the mentioned deadlines correspond to administrative contracting procedures for works, consultancies, among others, in which an eventuality could arise. While it is true that the schedule is presented extemporaneously, according to the documentary review, the deadlines indicated in the schedule present justifications for their execution. These deadlines are duly justified and reviewed by competent and qualified personnel of the Ministry of Public Education, who are familiar with the legal and administrative process involved in project execution in public administration. In addition to the foregoing, the joint visit was carried out with Eng. Francisco José Alfaro Chavarría from the Health Governance Unit of the East Central Region, as recorded in technical report MS-DRRSCE-URS-0061-2024, where a series of non-conformities were determined, mainly in the absence of maintenance of the infrastructural elements that make up the property. Despite the fact that these inconsistencies must be duly corrected to ensure the safety of users and collaborators, the professional did not detect a non-conformity that represents an imminent risk. However, it is important to clarify that the risk exists and that the administrative act was filed since 2018, as evidenced in the case file, so it is considered relevant to take into consideration the indication in the recommendations section of the aforementioned technical report, where it indicates: 'Request the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) to deliver the attention schedule for the Santa Cristina school educational center, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. The DIE will be requested semiannually to send a progress report on the compliance with the activity schedule delivered in December 2023, this to give due follow-up in compliance with what is ordered by the Ministry of Health.' 1. CONCLUSIONS. In accordance with the documentation presented by the DIE and the joint visit with the regional engineer and the Health Governing Area, it is determined that the deadlines indicated by the DIE are supported by the basis and justifications provided by the professionals of that institution. The presentation of the schedule is made extemporaneously; however, as it was evidenced during the joint visit that the inconsistencies remain on the site, the presentation and execution of the schedule within the indicated deadlines constitute an important input for the well-being of the student body and administrative staff considering the current situation of the educational center.” He comments that considering the reports presented, it is determined that the main discrepancies lie in the lack of maintenance of the infrastructural elements of the property. Although these deficiencies must be duly corrected to guarantee the safety of the users and staff, the professionals in charge of the inspections have not identified any non-conformity that represents an imminent risk. However, the risk persists and the administrative act was issued in 2018, as recorded in the case file. Therefore, the Directorate of Educational Infrastructure (DIE) will be requested to provide an attention schedule for the educational center. It will be required that said schedule be accompanied by a semiannual progress report on the compliance with the programmed activities delivered in December 2023. He adds that this measure will be implemented in order to guarantee adequate follow-up of the situation.

It was also observed that the wastewater from the wash basins was not disposed of in a sanitary manner; this water was not conveyed to any septic tank or other collector duly designed for that purpose, and it was evidenced that it was discharged into the same storm drainage system. (…) The sanitary ware was observed in acceptable condition of conservation and maintenance; the sinks and toilets were in good condition. (…) The number of sanitary fixtures counted during the inspection was not appropriate for the educational level of the school according to the number of students (11). One toilet and one urinal for every 30 male students, one toilet for every 20 female students, one sink for every 60 students. The non-conformity is maintained as only one sanitary fixture was found for all students, without separating female and male students. On the other hand, the number of drinking fountains was also in accordance with the provisions of the regulations. One drinking fountain for every 100 students. Stormwater. In general terms, the management of stormwater was non-compliant; non-conformities were found related to the deteriorated condition of the system's components. In several sectors of the property, the drainage components for this rainwater were in poor condition; damaged (or absent) gutters, catch basins, and downspouts were evidenced, as well as a general lack of maintenance. Also mentioned as a non-conformity, as already noted, is the discharge of wastewater from wash basins into the storm drainage system. (…) Drinking water. According to what was reported, the drinking water service for the property is provided continuously by the ASADA Santa Cristina. The school did not have an alternate tank for drinking water storage. Surrounding conditions. According to what was observed during the inspection and confirmed by the school director, there has been no impact from flooding at the site, nor from landslides on the land where the property is located. As a relevant observation, the land does not have a perimeter enclosure, such as a security fence. According to what was mentioned by the director, months ago a robbery occurred at the school; some valuable items were stolen, according to what was reported. Lighting and ventilation. It was observed that the existing classroom had good natural lighting, in addition to having light fixtures. It was also evidenced that this classroom had acceptable ventilation. (…) Ley 7600. According to what was observed during the inspection, general non-compliance with the Regulation of Ley 7600 was evidenced. Non-conformities were detected related to different floor levels where there are no ramps, nor were the dimensions of the perimeter walkways met, in addition to non-conformities due to the absence of roofs on the entrance walkway, handrails, steep slopes, and surface finishes required by legislation. On the other hand, the only sanitary fixture observed did not show compliance with Ley 7600. The internal dimensions were not those indicated by the Regulation, nor did it comply by not having the required accessories. (…) Current condition of sanitary orders N°0145-2017 and N°0038-2023. According to what was evidenced during the recent inspection, compliance with what is indicated in the aforementioned sanitary orders has not been achieved to date. It should be noted that Ing. Rigoberto González Espinoza and Arq. Eduardo Camacho Vargas, both from the Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) of the Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), according to official communication DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023, dated December 21, 2023, presented to the Director of the DIE a schedule with all the activities to be carried out at said property, starting in January 2024 and ending in July 2025. Legal Framework. 1. Directive N°DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S, inter-ministerial coordination for the attention of sanitary orders. 2. Ley General de Salud, Ley Nº 5395. 3. Ley Orgánica del Ministerio de Salud, Ley Nº 5412. 4. Ley General de la Administración Pública, Nº 6227. 5. Ley 7600 “Igualdad de Oportunidades para las Personas con Discapacidad en Costa Rica” and its Regulation. Conclusions. 1. Structural and non-structural elements. Non-conformities were detected in the condition of a sector of the roof structure; damage was observed in elements such as trusses and purlins that made up said structure. A lack of maintenance of the zinc sheets of the roof covering was observed. The presence of cracks in the subfloor on one side of the property, absence of ceiling panels, and damaged seals in some areas were also evidenced. 2. Electrical system. It was detected that one of the breaker boxes had no cover, in addition to being located quite close to the dining room wash basin, a condition that presented a potential risk. 3. Wastewater. It was not possible to locate the septic tank on the site, so the non-conformity is maintained. Elements such as pipes and catch basins were observed, which were damaged; an absence of maintenance and/or replacement of some of these elements was evidenced. The water from the wash basins was not disposed of in a sanitary manner; this water was not conveyed to any septic tank or other collector duly designed for that purpose; it was discharged into the same storm drainage system. 4. Stormwater system. Non-conformities were found related to the deteriorated condition of the system's components. In several sectors of the property, the drainage components for this rainwater were in poor condition; the following were evidenced: damaged (or absent) gutters, catch basins, and downspouts, as well as a general lack of maintenance. 5. Drinking water. The school did not have an alternate tank for drinking water storage. 6. Surroundings, property security. The land does not have a perimeter enclosure, such as a security fence. The theft of some valuable items has already occurred, according to what was reported by the director. Likewise, it represents a considerable risk to the integrity of the student body due to exiting the secure perimeter within the school. 7. Ley 7600. General non-compliance; non-conformities were detected related to different floor levels where there are no ramps, nor were the dimensions of the perimeter walkways met, in addition to the absence of roofs on the entrance walkway, handrails; there are steep slopes and the surface finish does not adhere to universal accessibility legislation. The only sanitary fixture observed did not show compliance with Ley 7600; the internal dimensions were not those indicated by the Regulation, nor did it comply by not having the required accessories. 8. Compliance status of sanitary orders. It was evidenced during the inspection that, currently, what is indicated in sanitary orders N°0145-2017 and N°0038-2023 has not been complied with. Recommendations. This report presents the technical assessments based on the inspection carried out on Tuesday, February 13, 2023. The Área Rectora de la Salud must carry out the administrative actions that, within its competence, it deems most convenient to guarantee the protection of the health and safety of individuals. Área Rectora de Salud Turrialba. Based on what was observed during the recent inspection of the school, and given that issuing a new sanitary order requesting a remedial plan would not add much content to the current process, since the DIE recently (December 2023) pronounced on the attention to said school. Furthermore, what is already indicated in sanitary order N°0038-2023 dated March 28, 2023, also gathers the non-conformities detected in the past, according to sanitary order N°0145-2017. The following is recommended to the ARS Turrialba: -Request from the Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) the delivery of the schedule for attending to the Escuela Santa Cristiana school, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. A progress report will be requested semi-annually from the DIE, evidencing compliance with the activity schedule delivered in December 2023, in order to provide due follow-up in attention to what is ordered by the Ministerio de Salud. -Respond to the document from the Sala Constitucional dated February 6, 2024, in relation to the amparo appeal process, where they request to inform the Court whether the deadlines and actions reported by the MEP authorities are compatible or not with the instructions issued by the Ministerio de Salud, attending to what was ordered in process 22-017352-0007-CO” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).

• 6)On March 28, 2023, the Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba of the Ministerio de Salud, taking into account the recommendations of the technical report MS-DRRSCE-DARSTIT-0085-2023, signed by Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, proceeded to issue sanitary order No. 0038-2023 (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 7)On March 28, 2023, the Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba of the Ministerio de Salud notified Mr. Javier Aguilar Montenegro, legal representative of the Escuela Santa Cristina La Suiza, of sanitary order No. 0038-2023, where the following was indicated: “The health authority orders you through this administrative act to proceed with the following: I. ACCESS. a. Accessibility according to Ley 7600 de Igualdad de Oportunidad para Personas con Discapacidad and its regulation. II. SANITARY FIXTURES. a. Have at least one sanitary fixture with the following characteristics: Doors with a minimum width of 0.90 m, opening outward, toilet stalls installed loaded to one side of the back wall: minimum depth: 2.25 m and minimum width 1.55 m, installed at the center of the back wall: minimum depth: 2.25 m and minimum width: 2.25 m. b. Accessories such as: towel racks, wastebaskets, diaper-changing stations, and grab bars shall be installed at a maximum height of 0.90 m. c. Mirrors shall be installed with a maximum height of their lower edge of 0.80 m. d. Must have separate sanitary fixtures for teaching and administrative staff, separated by sex and in good condition. III. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS. a. All doors must have a minimum width of 0.90 m. b. All buildings of the school must be connected by covered passageways, complying with the provisions of Ley 7600. c. The access ramp for persons with disabilities must have the following characteristics: Minimum width of 1.20 m. Handrail at 0.90 m from the finished floor level. Non-slip floor texture. d. Hallways must have a minimum clear width, free of obstacles, of 2.40 m for the first 400 m² of usable floor area, and must be increased at a rate of 0.60 m for each additional 100.00 m² or fraction thereof. e. The floors of hallways that are unprotected from the rain must be non-slip. IV. SAFETY CONDITIONS. a. The entire perimeter of the site must be enclosed. b. The Emergency Response Plan must be prepared and implemented in accordance with the provisions of Decreto Ejecutivo No. 39502 - MP of November 10, 2015, 'Normas de Planes de Preparativos y Respuesta ante Emergencias para Centros Laborales o de Ocupación Pública'. This plan must be updated every two years, or when risk conditions have changed, and must be consistent with the characteristics and activity carried out in the establishment. c. Have emergency power supply for exit lighting. V. WASTE MANAGEMENT. a. Every generating entity must have and keep updated a Comprehensive Waste Management Program, in accordance with the provisions of Ley 8839 for the comprehensive management of waste and its regulation. Prepare and implement the Comprehensive Waste Management Program, as indicated in the Reglamento General a la Ley para la Gestión integral de Residuos N°37567- S-MINAET-H, Anexo 1. b. Excreta, blackwater, greywater, and stormwater must be disposed of adequately and sanitarily to avoid contamination of the soil and natural water sources for human use and consumption, the formation of vector and disease breeding sites, and air pollution through conditions that threaten its purity or quality. VI. DINING AREA. a. All disused equipment or materials that may attract and shelter insects and rodents must be removed. b. Buildings must be in good physical and hygienic conditions. c. Walls must be made of impermeable material, smooth, easy to wash and disinfect, and light in color; they must be in good condition of maintenance and hygiene. d. Windows must be provided with protection against insects or other animals. The protection system must be easily removable for cleaning and maintenance. e. Light sources must have protectors. f. Must have grease and oil traps and they must be kept in good working and hygienic condition. g. A documented pest control plan must be developed and implemented. When pest control requires the application of pesticides, this must be carried out by trained personnel. A record of activities and applications must be kept to evidence compliance. Pest control products must be authorized by the Ministerio de Salud. When pest control is carried out by companies providing that service, they must be authorized by the Ministerio de Salud. h. Have a documented Hygiene and Disinfection Program, which includes the cleaning and disinfection procedures detailed in Article N˚60 of the Reglamento para los Servicios de Alimentación al Público. Staff assigned to the food preparation area must wear clean work clothes, hair covering, and closed-toe shoes made of non-absorbent material. i. Breaker boxes must have a cover. j. The ceiling must be of solid construction, with a design and finish that prevents the accumulation of dirt; the materials used must be smooth and resistant to cleaning operations. The height between the ceiling and the floor of the establishments regulated herein must be greater than or equal to 2.50 meters” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 8)On August 21, 2023, Sofia Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process of the Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, conducted a verification visit for sanitary order No. 0038-2023, issuing report No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0596-2023, which stated the following: “SITUATION FOUND. The on-site inspection was carried out on August 21 of this year; at 10:00 hours, I am received by Mr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, ID: 303250035, in his capacity as director. At the time of the visit, I was informed that no visit has been made by any official from the DIEE, likewise, they have not had a timely response regarding the new administrative act issued. The student dining hall remains closed, given the risks to the infrastructure. CONCLUSIONS. The administrative act issued is not complied with; no modification or start of works is evidenced” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 9)On December 21, 2023, through official communication No. DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023, signed by Rigoberto González Espinoza, in his capacity as an official of the Maintenance Department of the DIE of the MEP, the following was indicated: “1…Actions taken to address the provisions of the Sala Constitucional of the Corte Suprema de Justicia: ▪ On the occasion of the assignment to the Maintenance Department No. I-U-C2043-22-149 by the Programming and Monitoring Department, both of the Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa, the school was visited on October 27, 2022, in order to assess the current conditions of the school's physical plant versus what was indicated by the Ministerio de Salud through sanitary order No.145-2017. ▪ Communication was established by email with the Área Rectora de Salud of the zone to request the report and/or resulting sanitary order from the visit carried out by said entity (as communicated by Mr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, director of the school) to analyze, based on circular No.DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S, the criteria regarding the aspects to be addressed and the established deadlines (seeking to consider possible new requirements) so they can be included in the final project approach (which specifically covers what is indicated in sanitary order 145-2017). ▪ Next, the actions undertaken to provide a definitive solution to the problems related to the development of civil infrastructure works are described, actions undertaken from May 2021 to December 2023: ▪ The relocation of the school is analyzed in accordance with the directive in circular DVM-A-DIE-0025-CIR-2019, Assessment of Single-Teacher Schools, and in report DVM-ADIE-DDO-0558-2022, dated June 27, 2022, it is concluded that the relocation of the student population to the nearby school is not viable. ▪ On August 12, 2022, the members of the school administration were informed that the existing resources will be used for the professional services contracting process, given the request from the president of the Education Board to use the resources. ▪ On August 22, 2022, through document DVM-A-DIE-DPS- 0245-2022, the case was transferred to be addressed by the Maintenance Department (DM) and the file in physical version was transferred on August 31, 2022, to the professional Ing. Allan Ramírez, coordinator of sanitary orders and amparo appeals. ▪ On October 27, 2022, a site visit was conducted to assess the case according to what is indicated by the procedure to be followed in the DM. ▪ In October 2023, induction was given on the topic to be addressed by the professional Rigoberto González Espinoza, and coordination was carried out with the officials of the Ministerio de Salud for the respective approach and review of the sanitary order. ▪ The diagnostic report was updated, as of December 14, 2023, document identified as DVM-A- DIE-DM-0862-2023, which contains the works to be promoted in adherence to what was requested by the Ministerio de Salud and their associated costs, a technical input that will allow initiating the respective contracting procedures. 2. Actions to be taken to address the provisions of the Sala Constitucional of the Corte Suprema de Justicia: ▪ In January 2024, the Maintenance Department will process the request for technical authorization before the Programming and Monitoring Department of the DIE, so that it is sent to the Junta de Educación of the Escuela Santa Cristina and the contracting of professional services can be carried out. ▪ The economic resources are already available in the accounts of the Junta de Educación for it to carry out, in the first instance, the contracting of professional services, and subsequently carry out the contracting for the construction of the Works. ▪ The professional services that the Board must manage entail the contracting of the professional who will be responsible for designing (preparing, in accordance with the regulations of the Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos de Costa Rica: preliminary studies, technical studies, preliminary project, construction plans, technical specifications, detailed budget, work schedule, and inspection of work execution) and processing the project before the corresponding authorities. ▪ Once the previous step is completed, and with the inputs delivered to the DIE, the respective reviews will be carried out to continue with the next step: the request for resources, so that the Board can contract the works. With the economic content available, the board can begin the process of contracting a construction company that will be responsible for carrying out the execution of the works. ▪ The estimated timeframe for carrying out the procedures for formulation, contracting professional services, design, plan processing, work contracting, and project execution is 3 months, a period that would begin next year. ▪ The resources for construction would be requested by September 2024, provided the corresponding resources are available. These are subject to budgetary availability for the allocation of resources by the Ministerio de Hacienda to the Junta de Educación to promote these procedures, and to the implementation by the Ministerio de Educación of the new legal, administrative, and procedural provisions regarding the Ley y Reglamento General de Contratación Pública, in force since December 1, 2022. ▪ Below is a schedule with the activities to be carried out: (…) The stages of the presented schedule are described below: 1. Request and authorization for contracting professional services for preliminary project, design, budget. (begins January 2024). 2. Review of the status of existing resources, legal conditions of the Board, and legality of the property (February 2024). 3. Contracting of professional for design (February to March 2024). 4. Preparation, review, and authorization of preliminary studies (March 2024). 5. Preparation, review, and authorization of preliminary project (March 2024). 6. Preparation, review, and authorization of construction plans and technical specifications (March 2024). 7. Preparation, review, and authorization of work budgets (April 2024). 8. Request for resources for work execution (by September 2024). 9. Deposit of resources for work execution (by November 2024). 10. Work contracting processes (from December to February 2025). 11. Execution and delivery of works (beginning in March 2025 and ending in July 2025). According to expert judgment, the Honorable Chamber is requested to grant an additional period equal to 19 months, for the comprehensive attention (completion of the professional services contracting process, development of the design consultancy, the work contracting process, and execution of the project for this school, which is justified for the following reasons: • That, in the development of technical studies, preliminary studies, preliminary project, construction plans and technical specifications, detailed budget, environmental feasibility process at SETENA, disbursement flow schedule, unforeseen events not detected in the initial project formulation may arise. • The time required to search for economic resources for work execution: once the work budget is determined, the corresponding request can be made to the Directorate of the DIE for the necessary amount to cover the cost of the works to be built, in order to manage their due deposit so that the contracting of the company responsible for constructing the works can subsequently take place. For these procedures, the estimated duration is 6 months. • The period required to grant technical authorization prior to the Juntas de Educación y/o Administrativas being able to initiate a work contracting procedure and cover the infrastructure needs in the schools. • The Board must carry out a second contracting procedure for the execution of the works, with the advice of the external consultant contracted in the design consultancy development stage, during which delays may occur due to eventual circumstances such as: the non-receipt of offers, that the offers received do not comply and the procedure must be declared unsuccessful, as well as the appeal period involved in these procedures, among others” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 10)On January 17, 2024, the Minister and the Director of Educational Infrastructure, both of the Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), detailed the actions carried out in order to comply with what was ordered by this Chamber in judgment No. 2023-001061 of 9:20 a.m. on January 20, 2023, and requested an extension of the deadline by 19 months (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).
• 11)On January 18, 2024, a hearing was granted to the Acting Director of the Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba of the Ministerio de Salud (the orders).
• 12)On January 19, 2024, the hearing resolution was notified to the Acting Director of the Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba of the Ministerio de Salud (see notification records added to the digital case file).
• 13)On February 26, 2024, through official communication No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0101-2024, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, communicated the following to the Director of the Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba: “Upon reviewing official communication DVM-ADIE-DM-0874-2023, signed by Ing. Rigoberto González Espinoza, from the Maintenance Department of the Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa, it is indicated that for the project management process, said department indicates a period of 3 months. Regarding the preparation, review, and authorization of preliminary studies, preliminary projects, construction plans, and budget, there is a period of approximately 2 months (March-April 2024). Once the process is finished, they indicate that the request for resources to execute the work will be made in September 2024, and the start of works will take place in March 2025. Given this situation, the DIE requests these deadlines with justifications for what the preliminary project entails and the legal process that follows, and indicates that the time needed to search for economic resources for the execution of the work requires around 6 months. Likewise, it is mentioned that the aforementioned deadlines correspond to administrative procedures for contracting works, consultancies, among others, in which an eventuality could arise. While it is true that the schedule is presented extemporaneously, according to the documentary review, the deadlines indicated in the schedule present justifications for their execution. Said deadlines are duly justified and reviewed by the competent and qualified personnel of the Ministerio de Educación Pública, who are familiar with the legal and administrative process involved in the execution of projects in public administration. In addition to the above, a joint visit was conducted with Ing. Francisco José Alfaro Chavarría from the Health Stewardship Unit of the Central East Region, as stated in technical report MS-DRRSCE-URS-0061-2024, where a series of non-conformities were determined, mainly in the absence of maintenance of the infrastructural elements that make up the property. Despite the fact that these inconsistencies must be duly corrected to ensure the safety of users and collaborators, the professional did not detect a non-conformity that represents an imminent risk. However, it is important to clarify that the risk exists and that the administrative act was submitted since 2018, as evidenced in the file, so it is considered relevant to take into consideration the indication in the recommendations section of the aforementioned technical report, which states: 'Request from the Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) the delivery of the schedule for attending to the Escuela Santa Cristiana school, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. A progress report on compliance with the activity schedule delivered in December 2023 will be requested semi-annually from the DIE, in order to provide due follow-up in attention to what is ordered by the Ministerio de Salud'. 1. CONCLUSIONS. In accordance with the documentation presented by the DIE and the joint visit with the regional engineer and the Área Rectora de Salud, it is determined that the deadlines indicated by the DIE are supported by the reasoning and justifications provided by the professional staff of said institution. The presentation of the schedule was done extemporaneously; however, as it was evidenced during the joint visit that the inconsistencies remain at the site, the presentation and execution of the schedule within the indicated deadlines constitute an important input for the well-being of the student body and administrative staff, considering the current situation of the school” (see reports from the respondent authorities and evidence provided to the digital case file).

IV.- Regarding the submissions presented. In the present matter, the Minister and the Director of Educational Infrastructure, both of the Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), as well as the Director of the Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, detailed the actions carried out in order to comply with what was ordered by this Chamber in judgment No. 2023-001061 of 9:20 a.m. on January 20, 2023. They also requested an extension of the deadline by 19 months.

The Reporting Magistrate forwarded to the Ministerio de Salud the documentation provided by the Ministerio de Educación Pública. On February 26, 2024, through official communication No.

MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0101-2024, Sofía Cordero Núñez, from the Health Regulation Process, communicated to the Director of the Turrialba Health Area the following: “(…) Upon reviewing official communication DVM-ADIE-DM-0874-2023, signed by Eng. Rigoberto González Espinoza, from the Maintenance Department of the Educational Infrastructure Directorate, it is indicated that for the project management process, said department states a period of 3 months. Regarding the preparation, review, and authorization of preliminary studies, pre-projects, construction plans, and budget, there is a period of approximately 2 months (March-April 2024). Once the process is completed, they indicate that the request for resources to execute the work will be made in September 2024, and the start of works will take place in March 2025. In light of this situation, the DIE requests these timeframes with the justifications for what the pre-project entails and the ensuing legal process, and indicates that the period for seeking economic resources for the execution of the work requires approximately 6 months. Likewise, it is mentioned that the aforementioned timeframes correspond to administrative procedures for contracting works, consultancies, among others, in which an eventuality could arise. While it is true that the schedule is submitted untimely, according to the documentary review, the timeframes indicated in the schedule present justifications for their execution. Said timeframes are duly justified and reviewed by the competent and qualified personnel of the Ministry of Public Education, who are knowledgeable about the legal and administrative process involved in the execution of projects in public administration. In addition to the above, a joint visit was conducted with Eng. Francisco José Alfaro Chavarría from the Health Rectory Unit, Central East Region, as recorded in technical report MS-DRRSCE-URS-0061-2024, where a series of non-conformities were determined, mainly in the absence of maintenance of the infrastructural elements that comprise the property. Although these inconsistencies must be duly corrected to ensure the safety of users and staff, the professional did not detect a non-conformity that represents an imminent risk. However, it is important to clarify that the risk does exist and that the administrative act was filed since 2018, as evidenced in the case file, so it is considered relevant to take into account the indication in the recommendations section of the aforementioned technical report, which states: “Request the Educational Infrastructure Directorate (DIE) to deliver the service schedule for the Santa Cristiana School educational center, warning that periodic information on its compliance will be requested. A progress report on compliance with the activities schedule delivered in December 2023 will be requested from the DIE on a semi-annual basis, in order to provide proper follow-up in accordance with the provisions of the Ministry of Health”. 1. CONCLUSIONS. In accordance with the documentation submitted by the DIE and the joint visit with the regional engineer and the Health Area, it is determined that the timeframes indicated by the DIE are supported by the basis and justifications provided by the professional personnel of said institution. The submission of the schedule is carried out untimely; however, since it was evidenced during the joint visit that the inconsistencies remain on site, the submission and execution of the schedule within the indicated timeframes constitute an important input for the well-being of the students and administrative staff, considering the current situation of the educational center (…)”.

Given that the documentation submitted by the Educational Infrastructure Directorate of the Ministry of Public Education was endorsed by the Ministry of Health, the appropriate course is to order that the document received via the Court’s email at 3:28 p.m. on January 17, 2024, signed by the Minister and the Director of Educational Infrastructure, both from the Ministry of Public Education, as well as the documents submitted by the Director of the Turrialba Health Area at 10:22 a.m. on January 23, 2024, at 1:47 p.m. on February 9, 2024, and at 11:26 a.m. on February 27, 2024, be added to its records and that the archiving of the case file be reserved until the total fulfillment of the measures recommended by the Ministry of Health is accredited.

It is worth noting that the extension of the compliance period for the issued sanitary order must be managed by the MEP before the Ministry of Health, and not before this Court. Note that what was ordered in judgment No. 2023-001061 of 9:20 a.m. on January 20, 2023, was the following: “The appeal is granted. Luis Fernando Gómez Cordero, in his capacity as Acting Director of the Turrialba Health Area of the Ministry of Health, or whoever occupies that position in his place, is ordered to execute all actions within the scope of his competencies and coordinate what is necessary so that: a) within a period of ONE MONTH, counted from the notification of this judgment, a new inspection is carried out and compliance deadlines are established for each of the aspects indicated in sanitary order No. 145-2017 and; b) follow-up on their full compliance is carried out. Anna Katharina Müller Castro and Álvaro Mata Leitón, in their respective capacities as Minister and Director of Educational Infrastructure, both from the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), or whoever occupies those positions in their place, are ordered to execute all actions within the scope of their competencies and coordinate what is necessary so that: a) sanitary order No. 145-2017 is complied with, within the timeframes and according to the requirements established by the Ministry of Health based on the newly ordered inspection and; b) while the sanitary order is complied with under said terms, all pertinent measures are adopted to guarantee the health and integrity of the educational community, and the continuity of the educational process (…)” (emphasis is not from the original).

V.- The authorities of the Ministry of Public Education and the Ministry of Health must arrange what is necessary and coordinate what is pertinent so that the safety, health, life, and physical integrity of the educational community is preserved and safeguarded during the time it takes to execute the pertinent actions.

VI.- Documentation provided to the case file. The parties are warned that if they have provided any document on paper, as well as objects or evidence contained in any additional electronic, computer, magnetic, optical, telematic device, or one produced by new technologies, these must be withdrawn from the office within a maximum period of 30 business days counted from the notification of this judgment. Otherwise, all material not withdrawn within this period will be destroyed, pursuant to the provisions of the “Reglamento sobre Expediente Electrónico ante el Poder Judicial”, approved by the Corte Plena in session No. 27-11 of August 22, 2011, article XXVI and published in Boletín Judicial No. 19 of January 26, 2012, as well as in the agreement approved by the Consejo Superior del Poder Judicial, in session No. 43-12 held on May 3, 2012, article LXXXI.

Por tanto:

The requested extension of time is denied. Add the documents submitted at 3:28 p.m. on January 17, 2024, at 10:22 a.m. on January 23, 2024, at 1:47 p.m. on February 9, 2024, and at 11:26 a.m. on February 27, 2024, to their records, and the archiving of the case file is reserved until the total fulfillment of the measures recommended by the Ministry of Health is accredited. The authorities of the Ministry of Public Education and the Ministry of Health shall take note of what is indicated in considerando V of this judgment. Notify.- Fernando Castillo V.

Fernando Cruz C.

Luis Fdo. Salazar A.

Anamari Garro V.

Ingrid Hess H.

Alejandro Delgado F.

Jorge Isaac Solano A.

Documento Firmado Digitalmente -- Código verificador --  1

Sala Constitucional Clase de asunto: Recurso de amparo Analizado por: SALA CONSTITUCIONAL  Res. Nº 2024006255 SALA CONSTITUCIONAL DE LA CORTE SUPREMA DE JUSTICIA. San José, a las nueve horas quince minutos del ocho de marzo de dos mil veinticuatro .

Gestión posterior presentada por ANNA KATHARINA MÜLLER CASTRO y LOURDES SÁUREZ BARBOZA, en sus calidades de MINISTRA y DIRECTORA DE INFRAESTRUCTURA EDUCATIVA, AMBAS DEL MINISTERIO DE EDUCACIÓN PÚBLICA.

Resultando:

1.- Por escrito recibido mediante el correo electrónico de la Sala a las 15:28 horas del 17 de enero de 2024, Anna Katharina Müller Castro y Lourdes Sáurez Barboza, en sus condiciones de Ministra y de Directora de Infraestructura Educativa, ambas del Ministerio de Educación Pública, manifiestan que según el informe No. DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023 del 21 de diciembre de 2023, suscrito por Rigoberto González Espinoza, en su condición de funcionario del Departamento de Mantenimiento, se indicó lo siguiente: “1…Acciones realizadas para la atención de lo dispuesto por la Sala Constitucional de la Corte Suprema de Justicia: ▪ Con motivo de la asignación al Departamento de Mantenimiento No. I-U-C2043-22-149 por parte del Departamento de Programación y Seguimiento, ambos de la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa, se visita el centro educativo el 27 de octubre del 2022 a fin de valorar las condiciones actuales de la planta física de la escuela versus lo indicado por el Ministerio de Salud mediante la orden sanitaria No.145-2017. ▪ Se estableció comunicación por correo electrónico con el Área Rectora de Salud de la zona para solicitar el informe y/o orden sanitaria resultante de la visita realizada por dicho ente (según lo comunicado por el señor Álvaro Ulloa Roda, director de la escuela) para analizar con base en la circular No.DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S los criterios sobre los aspectos por atender y los plazos establecidos (en procura de considerar posibles nuevos requerimientos) y así puedan incluirse en el planteamiento final del proyecto (cuyo abarca específicamente lo señalado en la orden sanitaria 145-2017). ▪ A continuación, se describen las acciones emprendidas para dar una solución definitiva a la problemática relacionada con el desarrollo de obras de infraestructura civil acciones emprendidas desde mayo 2021 a diciembre del 2023: ▪ Se analiza la reubicación del centro educativo de acuerdo a la directriz en la circular DVM-A-DIE-0025-CIR-2019, Valoración de Escuelas Unidocentes y en informe DVM-ADIE-DDO-0558-2022, de del 27 de Junio del 2022 se concluye de que no es viable la reubicación de la población estudiantil en el centro educativo próximo. ▪ El 12 de agosto del 2022 se les indica a los integrantes de la administración del centro educativo que los recursos existentes serán utilizados para el proceso de contratación de servicios profesionales dada la solicitud del presidente de Junta para utilizar los recursos. ▪ El 22 de agosto del 2022, mediante el documento DVM-A-DIE-DPS- 0245-2022 se hace el traslado del caso para ser atendido por el Departamento de Mantenimiento (DM) y el expediente fen versión física, el 31 de agosto del 2022 al profesional Ing. Allan Ramírez, coordinador de las ordenes sanitarias y recursos de amparo. ▪ El 27 de octubre de octubre del 2022 se realiza la visita al sitio para la valoración del caso de acuerdo a lo indicado por el procedimiento a seguir en el DM. ▪ En octubre d l 2023 se hace inducción en el tema para ser atendido por el profesional Rigoberto González Espinoza y se realiza una coordinación con los funcionarios del Ministerio de Salud para el respectivo abordaje y revisión de orden sanitaria. ▪ Se actualiza el informe de diagnóstico, a la fecha del día 14 de diciembre del 2023, documento identificado como DVM-A- DIE-DM-0862-2023, mismo que contiene las obras por impulsar en apego a lo solicitado por el Ministerio de Salud y sus costos asociados, insumo técnico que permitirá iniciar las gestiones de contratación respectivas. 2. Acciones por realizar para la atención de lo dispuesto por la Sala Constitucional de la Corte Suprema de Justicia: ▪ En enero del 2024 el Departamento de Mantenimiento gestionará la solicitud de la autorización técnica ante el Departamento de Programación y Seguimiento de la DIE, para que esta se le remita a la Junta de Educación de la Escuela Santa Cristina y realice la contratación de servicios profesionales. ▪ Ya se cuenta con los recursos económicos en las cuentas de la Junta de Educación para que ésta realice en primera instancia la contratación de servicios profesionales, para posteriormente realizar la contratación para la construcción de las Obras. ▪ Los Servicios profesionales que debe gestionar la Junta, conlleva la contratación del profesional que se encargarán de diseñar (elaborar conforme a la normativa del Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos de Costa Ricas: estudios preliminares, técnicos, anteproyecto, planos constructivos, especificaciones técnicas, presupuesto detallado, cronograma de obra e inspección de ejecución de obras) y tramitar el proyecto ante las instancias correspondientes. ▪ Una vez realizado el paso anterior y con los insumos entregados al DIE, se realizará las respectivas revisiones para continuar con el siguiente paso, la solicitud de recursos, para que la Junta realice la contratación de las obras, ya con el contenido económico, podrá la junta iniciar el proceso de contratación de una empresa constructora que será la encargada de llevar a cabo la ejecución de las obras. ▪ El plazo estimado para la realización de las gestiones de formulación, contratación de servicios profesionales, diseño, tramitología de planos, contratación de obra y ejecución del proyecto, es de 3 meses, plazo que iniciaría el próximo año. ▪ Los recursos para la construcción sería solicitados para setiembre del 2024 hasta tanto se cuente con los recursos correspondientes, mismos que quedan supeditados a la disponibilidad presupuestaria para la asignación de los recursos por parte del Ministerio de Hacienda a la Junta de Educación para el impulso de dichas gestiones y a la implementación por parte del Ministerio de Educación de las nuevas disposiciones jurídicas, administrativas y procedimentales en torno a la Ley y Reglamento General de Contratación Pública, vigente desde el primero de diciembre de 2022. ▪ A continuación, se presenta un cronograma con las actividades por realizar: (…) A continuación, se describen las etapas del cronograma presentado: 1. Solicitud y autorización de contratación de servicios profesionales para anteproyecto, diseño, presupuesto. (inicia enero del 2024). 2. Revisión de estado de los recursos existentes, condiciones jurídicas de la Junta y legalidad de la propiedad (febrero del 2024). 3. Contratación de profesional para diseño (febrero a marzo del 2024). 4. Elaboración, revisión y autorización de estudios preliminares (marzo del 2024). 5. Elaboración, revisión y autorización de anteproyecto (marzo del 2024). 6. Elaboración, revisión y autorización de planos constructivos y especificaciones técnicas (marzo del 2024). 7. Elaboración, revisión y autorización de presupuestos de obras (abril 2024). 8. Solicitud de recursos para ejecución de obras (hasta setiembre del 2024). 9. Depósito de recursos para ejecución de obras (hasta noviembre del 2024). 10. Procesos de contratación de obra (de diciembre a febrero del 2025). 11. Ejecución y entrega de obras (iniciando en marzo del 2025 y finaliza en Julio del 2025). De acuerdo con el criterio experto, se solicita a la Honorable Sala que se otorgue un plazo adicional igual a 19 meses, para la atención integral (finalización del proceso de contratación de servicios profesionales, desarrollo de la consultoría de diseño, el proceso de contratación de obra y la ejecución de esta del proyecto para este centro educativo, el cual se justifica por los siguientes motivos: • Que, en el desarrollo de los estudios técnicos, estudios preliminares, anteproyecto, planos constructivos y especificaciones técnicas, presupuesto detallado, trámite de viabilidad ambiental en SETENA, cronograma de flujo de desembolsos, se presente imprevistos no detectados en la formulación del proyecto inicial. • El tiempo de búsqueda de recursos económicos para la ejecución de obra: al determinarse el presupuesto de las obras, se puede proceder a solicitar a la Dirección de la DIE, el monto necesario para cubrir el costo de las obras por construir, a fin de gestionar su debido depósito para que posteriormente se realice la contratación de la empresa responsable de la construcción de las obras. Para estas diligencias, se considera que la duración es de 6 meses. • El plazo para otorgar la autorización técnica de previo a que las Juntas de Educación y/o Administrativas puedan acudir a un procedimiento de contratación de obra y cubrir las necesidades de infraestructura en los centros educativos. • La Junta debe llevar a cabo un segundo procedimiento de contratación para la ejecución de las obras, con la asesoría del consultor externo contratado en la etapa de desarrollo de la consultoría de diseño, en la cual, se pueden presentar retrasos por eventuales circunstancian como: la no recepción de ofertas, que las ofertas que lleguen no cumplan y se deba declarar infructuoso el procedimiento, así como el plazo recursivo que tienen estos procedimientos, entre otros”. Agrega que la prestación del servicio educativo no se ha interrumpido y que en la comunidad educativa se continúa impartiendo clases en las instalaciones.

2.- Por resolución de las 14:14 horas del 18 de enero de 2024, se le concedió audiencia a Luis Fernando Gómez Cordero, en su condición de Director a.i. del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba del Ministerio de Salud, o a quien en su lugar ocupe ese cargo.

3.- Por escrito recibido en la Secretaría de la Sala e incorporado al expediente digital a las 10:22 horas del 23 de enero de 2024, informa bajo juramento Edwin Cervantes Montoya, en su condición de Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba. Manifiesta que posterior a la recepción de la sentencia 2023-001061 del 25 de enero de 2023, se procedió con la visita de seguimiento de la orden sanitaria No. 0145-2017 y la visita se realizó el 25 de enero de 2023, por parte de Sofía Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud, del cual se emitió el informe No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0045-2023, y se indicó lo siguiente: “SITUACIÓN ENCONTRADA. La inspección in situ se realiza el 25 de enero de 2023, según consta en el acta de inspección N°009-2023 adjunta en el expediente. Al ser las 09:30 horas me apersonó al lugar en donde se encuentra la entrada abierta hacia las instalaciones, sin embargo, las aulas y comedor se encuentran cerrado y no se encuentra ninguna persona este día. A pesar de que no se logra ubicar una persona durante la vista, se realiza un recorrido por el lugar y se encuentra lo siguiente: • El servicio sanitario se encuentra abierto, por lo que se determinar que aún sigue sin cumplir con las dimensiones indicadas en la Ley 7600 de Igualdad de Oportunidades para Personas con Discapacidad. • Asimismo, las puertas no cuentan con el ancho mínimo de 0,90 cm. • El paso de la entrada de ingreso a la entrada de la escuela no se encuentra debidamente cubierto. • El perímetro no ha sido cerrado. • Los pasillos no cuentan con el ancho mínimo de 1,20 cm, acorde al Reglamento de la Ley 7600. CONCLUSIONES. No se logra verificar el cumplimiento de la totalidad de las disposiciones sanitarias de la orden sanitaria, sin embargo, al recorrer las instalaciones se evidencia un incumplimiento en diversos aspectos a nivel estructural que no han sido modificadas acorde a lo indicado en el acto administrativo. RECOMENDACIÓN. Reprogramar la visita para poder realizar el recorrido completo de todo el centro educativo para verificar los puntos faltantes de la orden sanitaria”. Narra que el 7 de febrero de 2023, se realizó una visita de inspección por parte de Sofía Cordero Núñez del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud, quien emitió el informe No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0085-2022, el cual indica lo siguiente: “SITUACIÓN ENCONTRADA. La segunda inspección in situ se realiza el 07 de febrero del presente año 2023, según consta en el acta de inspección N°018-2023 adjunta en el expediente. Al ser las 10:26 horas me apersonó al lugar y me atiende el Sr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, cédula: 303250035, en su calidad de director del centro educativo Escuela Santa Cristina, ubicado a 4 kilómetros sur de la plaza de La Suiza, Santa Cristina, La Suiza. El director indica que, en octubre de 2022, se realiza una reunión en conjunto a la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE), Junta Directiva, entre otros. Según comentar, se realiza un recorrido por las instalaciones y la DIE toma fotografía del sitio, al día de la visita no se había notificado ningún otro avance. Actualmente el comedor no se encuentra en uso por decisión de la junta directiva debido a las condiciones físico-sanitarios del inmueble. Al ingresar al comedor, se evidencia un deterioro en techo, paredes y pisos. El director indica que ha habido presencia de plagas como murciélagos y se han encontrado serpientes. Asimismo, el director señala su preocupación por la falta de una malla perimetral, debido a la colindancia con zona boscosa y barrancos, en donde existe un riesgo alto para los y las estudiantes. Al verificar los aspectos de la orden sanitaria N°0145-2017 se identifica lo siguiente:

Acceso Disposición sanitaria Estado de cumplimiento Se debe cumplir con las condiciones de acceso reguladas por la Ley 7600 en todo el centro educativo Sin cumplir Servicios sanitarios

Disposiciones sanitarias

Estado de cumplimiento Disponer de al menos un servicio sanitario que cuente con las siguientes características:

Puertas de 0,90 cm de ancho mínimo que, y que abran hacia afuera, cubículos para inodoros instalados cargados aun lado de la pared de fondo: profundidad mínima: 2,25 mts y ancho mínimo 1,55 mts, instalados al centro de la pared de fondo: profundidad mínima: 2,25 mts y ancho mínimo: 2,25 mts Sin cumplir Accesorios como: toalleros, papeleras, pañeras y agarraderas, se instalarán a una altura máxima de 0,90 mts.

Sin cumplir Los espejos se instalarán a una altura máxima de su borde inferior de 0,80 mts Sin cumplir Debe contar con servicios sanitarios separados para el personal docente y administrativo, separado por sexo y en buen estado.

Sin cumplir Normas constructivas

Disposiciones sanitarias

Estado de cumplimiento Todas las puertas deben tener un ancho mínimo de 0,90 m Debe existir un paso a cubierto desde el portón de ingreso hasta la entrada de la escuela, así mismo, todas las áreas se deben comunicar entre si por pasos a cubierto cumpliendo con las especificaciones descritas en la Ley 7600.

Sin cumplir Dar mantenimiento al sistema de conducción de las aguas de techos.

Sin cumplir La rampa de acceso para personas con discapacidad debe contar con las siguientes características:

Tener ancho mínimo de 1,20 m.

Baranda o pasamanos a 0,90 m desde el nivel del piso terminado.

Textura de piso antideslizante.

Sin cumplir Condiciones de seguridad

Disposiciones sanitarias

Estado de cumplimiento Todo el perímetro del lugar deberá cerrarse Sin cumplir El plan de emergencias debe estar actualizado y avalado por un personal idóneo, además, debe ajustarse a los establecido en el anexo 2 del Decreto N 39472-S Reglamento General para Autorizaciones y Permisos Sanitarios de Funcionamiento Otorgados por el Ministerio de Salud.

No se evidencia en el expediente Contar con alimentación de emergencia para iluminación de las salidas Sin cumplir Colocar rotulación orientado hacia accesos y salidas de emergencia Cumplida Disponer de un botiquín de primeros auxilios con medicamentos y apósitos mínimos Cumplida Dotar a la escuela de dos extintores ABC de 4,54 kg ubicados de manera tal que no se deba recorrer a mas (sic) de 15 m para alcanzarlo (uno en el aula y otro en la cocina) estos deben de estar señalizados y ser sometidos a un programa anual de mantenimiento. Además, deben instalarse a una altura no mayor a 1,25 m medidos desde el nivel de piso al soporte del extintor.

Cumplida Manejo de los residuos

Disposiciones sanitarias

Estado de cumplimiento Todo ente generador debe contar y mantener actualizado un Programa de Manejo Integral de Residuos, de acuerdo con lo tipificado en la Ley 8839 de la gestión integral de residuos y su reglamento. Elaborar e implementar el Programa de Gestión Integral de Residuos, según lo indicado en el Reglamento General a la Ley para la Gestión integral de Residuos N°37567-S-MINAET-H, anexo 1.

No se evidencia en expediente Se debe incluir el área del comedor Sin cumplir Área de comedor

Disposiciones sanitarias

Estado de cumplimiento Se deben eliminar todos los equipos o materiales en desuso que puedan constituirse en atracción y refugio para insectos y roedores.

Sin cumplir Las edificaciones se deben encontrar en buenas condiciones física e higiénicas.

Sin cumplir Según corresponda, debe contar con las áreas claramente definidas de: almacenamiento y conservación, preparación, consumo, servicios sanitarios Cumplida Las paredes deben ser de material impermeable, lisas, fáciles de lavar y desinfectar y de color claro deben estar en buen estado de mantenimiento e higiene Sin cumplir Las ventanas deben estar provistas de protección contra insectos u otros animales. El sistema de protección se debe desmontar con facilidad para su limpieza y mantenimiento.

Sin cumplir Las fuentes lumínicas se deben encontrar con protectores.

Sin cumplir Deben contar con campana extractora con capacidad suficiente para eliminar eficazmente vapores generados. Dicho sistema de extracción deberá cubrir la zona destinada a cocción y fritura Cumplida El equipo y utensilios deben ser resistentes a la corrosión y no transmitir sustancias toxicas, olores ni sabores a los alimentos.

Cumplida El fregadero se debe encontrar en buen estado de conservación, limpieza e higiene, deben de ser de acero inoxidable u otro material resistente o lisos y su capacidad debe ser acorde con el volumen del servicio Cumplida Se debe contar con trampas de grasas y aceites y se deben mantener en buen estado de funcionamiento e higiene Sin cumplir Se evidencia el plan de control de plagas Sin cumplir Se evidencia el programa documentado de higiene y desinfección Sin cumplir El personal destacado en el área de preparación de alimentos debe llevar ropa de trabajo limpia, cobertor de cabello, calzado cerrado de material no absorbente.

No se identifica debido a que no hay personal actualmente laborando en el comedor Las vajillas, copas y vasos se deben guardar boca abajo sobre una superficie limpia, seca y protegida de contaminantes y a más de 30 cm sobre el piso.

Cumplida Los alimentos crudos se deben almacenar en los equipos de refrigeración en recipientes y se deben ubicar separados de los cocidos No se identifican alimentos crudos El lugar se debe encontrar limpio, seco y ventilado y protegido de plagas.

Sin cumplir Almacenamiento de alimentos debe de ser separado de acuerdo con su naturaleza y debidamente identificados No se identifican alimentos en el comedor En caso de requerir aplicar plaguicidas el personal que realiza esta labor debe estar capacitado, o si esta tarea es hecha por una empresa externa debe estar autorizada por el ministerio de salud Sin cumplir Aunado a lo anterior, se identifica un manejo inadecuado de aguas servidas, falta de manejo de aguas pluviales en la parte trasera del comedor y la caja de breaker no se encuentra con tapa el día de la visita. CONCLUSIONES. Del total de las 35 disposiciones sanitarias emitidas en la orden sanitaria en mención se determina durante la visita el cumplimiento de 8 de estas, identificándose como faltante principal los cambios en infraestructura, en el servicio sanitario y comedor. El comedor actualmente no se encuentra funcionando por decisión de la junta directiva debido a las malas condiciones físico-sanitarias de este. De acuerdo con la persona que atiende no existe un seguimiento oportuno por parte de la DIE del MEP, por lo que se desconoce con exactitud cuando serán realizadas las modificaciones ordenadas en el acto administrativo”. Refiere que atendiendo las recomendaciones del informe técnico MS-DRRSCE-DARSTIT-0085-2023, suscrito por Sofía Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud, se procedió a girar la orden sanitaria No. 0038-2023 al señor Javier Aguilar Montenegro, en calidad de Representante Legal, misma que fue notificada el 28 de marzo de 2023. Expone que dicha orden indicó lo siguiente: “La autoridad de salud le ordena a través de este acto administrativo, proceder con lo indicado a continuación: I. ACCESO. a. Accesibilidad según la Ley 7600 de Igualdad de Oportunidad para Personas con Discapacidad y su reglamento. II. SERVICIOS SANITARIOS. a. Disponer de al menos un servicio sanitario que cuente con las siguientes características: Puertas de 0,90 cm de ancho mínimo que, y que abran hacia afuera, cubículos para inodoros instalados cargados a un lado de la pared de fondo: profundidad mínima: 2,25 mts y ancho mínimo 1,55 mts, instalados al centro de la pared de fondo: profundidad mínima: 2,25 mts y ancho mínimo: 2,25 mts. b. Accesorios como: toalleros, papeleras, pañeras y agarraderas, se instalarán a una altura máxima de 0,90 mts. c. Los espejos se instalarán a una altura máxima de su borde inferior de 0,80 mts. d. Debe contar con servicios sanitarios separados para el personal docente y administrativo, separado por sexo y en buen estado. III. NORMAS CONSTRUCTIVAS. a. Todas las puertas deben tener un ancho mínimo de 0,90 m. b. Todas las edificaciones del centro educativo deben estar comunicadas por medio de pasos cubiertos, cumpliendo lo estipulado en la Ley 7600. c. La rampa de acceso para personas con discapacidad debe contar con las siguientes características: Tener ancho mínimo de 1,20 m. Baranda o pasamanos a 0,90 m desde el nivel del piso terminado. Textura de piso antideslizante. d. Los pasillos deben tener como mínimo un ancho libre de obstáculos, de 2,40 m para los primeros 400 m² de planta útil, y se debe aumentar a razón de 0,60 m por cada 100,00 m adicionales o fracción. e. Los pisos de los pasillos que se encuentren desprotegidos de la lluvia deberán de ser antiderrapante. IV. CONDICIONES DE SEGURIDAD. a. Todo el perímetro del lugar deberá cerrarse. b. El Plan de Atención de Emergencias debe ser elaborado, implementado conforme con lo establecido en el Decreto Ejecutivo No. 39502 - MP del 10 de noviembre de 2015 "Normas de Planes de Preparativos y Respuesta ante Emergencias para Centros Laborales o de Ocupación Pública”. Este plan se debe actualizar cada dos años, o cuando se hayan variado las condiciones de riesgo y debe ser acorde a las características y actividad que se realice en el establecimiento. c. Contar con alimentación de emergencia para iluminación de las salidas. V. MANEJO DE RESIDUOS. a. Todo ente generador debe contar y mantener actualizado un Programa de Manejo Integral de Residuos, de acuerdo con lo tipificado en la Ley 8839 de la gestión integral de residuos y su reglamento. Elaborar e implementar el Programa de Gestión Integral de Residuos, según lo indicado en el Reglamento General a la Ley para la Gestión integral de Residuos N°37567- S-MINAET-H, anexo 1. b. Las excretas, las aguas negras, las servidas y las pluviales, deberán ser eliminadas adecuada y sanitariamente a fin de evitar la contaminación del suelo y de las fuentes naturales de agua para el uso y consumo humano, la formación de criaderos de vectores y enfermedades y la contaminación del aire mediante condiciones que atenten contra su pureza o calidad. VI. ÁREA DE COMEDOR. a. Se deben eliminar todos los equipos o materiales en desuso que puedan constituirse en atracción y refugio para insectos y roedores. b. Las edificaciones se deben encontrar en buenas condiciones física e higiénicas. c. Las paredes deben ser de material impermeable, lisas, fáciles de lavar y desinfectar y de color claro deben estar en buen estado de mantenimiento e higiene. d. Las ventanas deben estar provistas de protección contra insectos u otros animales. El sistema de protección se debe desmontar con facilidad para su limpieza y mantenimiento. e. Las fuentes lumínicas se deben encontrar con protectores. f. Se debe contar con trampas de grasas y aceites y se deben mantener en buen estado de funcionamiento e higiene g. Se debe desarrollar y tener en ejecución un plan de control de plagas documentado. Cuando el control de plagas requiera la aplicación de plaguicidas, ésta debe ser realizada por personal capacitado. Se debe llevar un registro de las actividades y aplicaciones que permita evidenciar su cumplimiento. Los productos para control de plagas deben estar autorizados por el Ministerio de Salud. Cuando el control de plagas sea realizado por empresas que brindan ese servicio, éstas deberán estar autorizadas por el Ministerio de Salud. h. Contar con un Programa de Higiene y Desinfección documentado, en el cual se incluyan los procedimientos de limpieza y desinfección detallados en el artículo N˚60 del Reglamento para los Servicios de Alimentación al Público. El personal destacado en el área de preparación de alimentos debe llevar ropa de trabajo limpia, cobertor de cabello, calzado cerrado de material no absorbente. i. Las cajas de breaker deben contar con tapa. j. El cielo raso debe ser de construcción sólida, tener un diseño y acabado que impida la acumulación de suciedad, los materiales utilizados deben ser lisos y resistentes a las operaciones de limpieza. La altura del entre cielo raso y el piso de los establecimientos aquí regulados debe ser mayor o igual a 2,50 metros”. Precisa que se realizó una visita de verificación de la orden sanitaria el 21 de agosto de 2023, por parte de Sofia Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud, del cual se emitió el informe No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0596-2023 y se indicó lo siguiente: “SITUACIÓN ENCONTRADA. La inspección in situ se realiza el 21 de agosto del presente año al ser las 10:00 horas me recibe el Sr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, cédula:303250035, en su calidad de director. En el momento de la visita se me indica que no se ha realizado ninguna visita por parte de algún funcionario de la DIEE, asimismo no han tenido una respuesta oportuna con respecto al nuevo acto administrativo girado. El comedor estudiantil permanece cerrado, dado los riesgos en la infraestructura. CONCLUSIONES. No se cumple con el acto administrativo girado, no se evidencia ninguna modificación o inicio de obras”. Agrega que en acatamiento a lo ordenado se programará una visita de inspección cuyas conclusiones se estarán notificando a la honorable Sala en tiempo según indicaciones de la resolución.

4.- Por resolución de las 8:28 horas del 6 de febrero de 2024, el Magistrado Instructor solicitó prueba para mejor resolver a Edwin Cervantes Montoya, en su condición de Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, a efectos de que aclarara lo siguiente: “a) Si se llevó a cabo o no la inspección señalada en el punto sexto del informe y cuáles fueron sus conclusiones, y b) si los plazos y actuaciones informadas por las autoridades del Ministerio de Educación de Pública (ver documentación adjunta) son compatibles o no con las instrucciones giradas por el Ministerio de Salud, atendiendo a lo ordenado”.

5.- Por escrito recibido mediante el correo electrónico de la Sala a las 13:47 horas del 9 de febrero de 2024, informa bajo juramento Edwin Cervantes Montoya, en su condición de Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba. Manifiesta que respecto al punto a), se tiene programada para la semana del 12 al 16 de febrero, la realización de la visita de inspección y se gestiona para que esta visita sea en acompañamiento del Ingeniero Regional para tener un criterio más específico de la misma visita. Con respecto al punto b), el documento aportado por el Ministerio de Educación Pública se encuentra en análisis de la funcionaria Sofía Cordero Núñez, una vez se tenga el análisis correspondiente será puesto en conocimiento de su honorable autoridad.

6.- Por resolución de las 8:25 horas del 23 de febrero de 2024, el Magistrado Instructor solicitó prueba para mejor resolver a Edwin Cervantes Montoya, en su condición de Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, a efectos de que aclarara lo siguiente: “a) Si en la semana del 12 al 16 de febrero de 2024, (tal y como fue comunicado) se llevó a cabo o no la inspección señalada en el punto sexto del informe y cuáles fueron sus conclusiones, y b) si los plazos y actuaciones informadas por las autoridades del Ministerio de Educación de Pública (ver documentación adjunta) son compatibles o no con las instrucciones giradas por el Ministerio de Salud, atendiendo a lo ordenado”.

7.- Por escrito recibido mediante el correo electrónico de la Sala a las 11:26 horas del 27 de febrero de 2024, informa bajo juramento Edwin Cervantes Montoya, en su condición de Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba. Manifiesta que posterior al envió del informe No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-0184-2024, se procedió a la coordinación de una visita en acompañamiento del ingeniero Regional. Indica que la visita se realizó el 13 de febrero de 2023, por parte de Sofía Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud, junto con el Ing. Francisco Alfaro Chavarría, de la Unidad de Rectoría de la Salud de la Región Central Este, de la cual se emitió el informe No. MS-DRRSCEURS-0061-2024, que indicó lo siguiente: “Situación encontrada. El centro educativo Santa Cristina fue fundado en 1981, es una escuela unidocente conformada por solamente un aula y el comedor estudiantil. Esta escuela tiene una población de 11 estudiantes y 4 administrativos, incluyendo al docente. Durante la inspección se utilizó la Guía de inspección físico-sanitaria para edificaciones de uso educativo. Condiciones físicas. Elementos estructurales. De manera general, los elementos estructurales como: vigas, columnas, losas de contrapiso y paredes, observados en las diversas áreas del inmueble se encontraban en condiciones aceptables. Sin embargo, se evidenció la ausencia de mantenimiento periódico en algunos de estos elementos. Se observó la composición del aula y comedor en materiales diversos como: elementos de concreto, mampostería (bloques), elementos de acero, paredes de cerramiento internas en materiales livianos como: láminas de zinc, madera y láminas de “gypsum” o similar. (…) Las paredes mostraban cumplimiento de verticalidad, los elementos horizontales (vigas) no mostraban deflexiones, tampoco se apreciaron columnas con pandeo. Durante el recorrido no se detectaron áreas en el inmueble con presencia de grietas en los elementos estructurales como columnas y vigas. Por otro lado, si se detectaron daños en elementos como cerchas y clavadores que conformaban la estructura de techos. También se evidenció la presencia de grietas en el contrapiso de un costado del inmueble. (…) Elementos no estructurales. Se detectaron algunas no conformidades en las láminas de cielorraso al encontrarse sueltas sin la correcta sujeción, también se evidenciaron áreas específicas sin cielorraso por completo y daños en las precintas. (…) Durante el recorrido no se detectaron daños en elementos como: puertas, ventanas ni vidrios, en general se observaban en condiciones aceptables. Tampoco se apreciaron daños en las estructuras electromecánicas de diversa índole. Con respecto a la cubierta de techo, se detectó ausencia en el mantenimiento periódico para evitar la corrosión de láminas y prolongar su vida útil. (…) Instalación eléctrica. Se observó la disposición de medidor eléctrico e interruptor principal. También se disponía de varias cajas de “breakers”, sin embargo, se detectó como no conformidad que una de estas no tenía la respectiva tapa, además de ubicarse bastante cerca a la pila de lavado del comedor. (…) En general, se observaron terminales eléctricas en buen estado físico y sujetas de manera firme (apagadores, tomacorrientes, plafones, lámparas), el cableado eléctrico se encontraba debidamente canalizado en tuberías, además de observar cajas de empalme con su respectiva tapa. También se observaron luminarias con protección para evitar desprendimientos de los fluorescentes. (…) Condiciones sanitarias. Aguas residuales. La disposición de las aguas residuales (aguas negras) del centro educativo es a tanque séptico según lo informado por el director, sin embargo, no fue posible ubicarlo en el sitio durante la inspección. Durante la inspección se detectaron algunas no conformidades relacionadas con las aguas residuales, mencionadas a continuación: Se observaron elementos como tuberías y cajas de registro los cuales se encontraban en mal estado de conservación, se evidenció ausencia de mantenimiento y/o sustitución de algunos de estos elementos mencionados. También se observó que, las aguas residuales provenientes de pilas de lavado no eran dispuestas en forma sanitaria, dichas aguas no eran conducidas a algún tanque séptico u otro recolector debidamente diseñado para tal fin, se evidenció que eran destinadas a la misma canalización pluvial. (…) La loza sanitaria se observó en condiciones aceptables de conservación y mantenimiento; los lavatorios e inodoros se encontraban en buen estado. (…) La cantidad de servicios sanitarios contabilizados durante la inspección no era acorde para el nivel de enseñanza del centro educativo según la cantidad de estudiantes (11). Un inodoro y un mingitorio por cada 30 alumnos, un inodoro por cada 20 alumnas, un lavado por cada 60 estudiantes. Se mantiene la no conformidad al encontrar únicamente un servicio sanitario para todos los estudiantes, sin separar alumnas y alumnos. Por otro lado, la cantidad de bebederos también era acorde a lo establecido en la normativa. Un bebedero por cada 100 estudiantes. Aguas pluviales. En términos generales el manejo de las aguas pluviales no era conforme, se encontraron incumplimientos relacionados con el estado de deterioro de los componentes del sistema. En varios sectores del inmueble los componentes de canalización de estas aguas de lluvia se encontraban en mal estado, se evidenciaron canoas, cajas de registro, tuberías de bajantes dañadas (o ausentes), así como ausencia de mantenimiento en general. También se menciona como no conformidad ya mencionada, la descarga de las aguas residuales de pilas de lavado hacia la canalización pluvial. (…) Agua potable. Según lo informado, el servicio de agua potable del inmueble es brindado de manera continua por la ASADA Santa Cristina. El centro educativo no disponía de tanque alterno para almacenamiento de agua potable. Condiciones del entorno. Según lo observado durante el recorrido y de lo confirmado por el director del centro educativo, no se ha presentado afectación alguna por inundaciones en el sitio, tampoco por deslizamientos en el terreno donde se ubica el inmueble. Como observación relevante, el terreno no cuenta con un cerramiento perimetral tipo malla de seguridad. Según lo mencionado por el director, meses atrás se dio un robo en el centro educativo, se sustrajeron algunos artículos de valor según lo informado. Iluminación y ventilación. Se observó que el aula existente tenía buena iluminación natural, además de disponer de luminarias. También se evidenció que esta aula tenía ventilación aceptable. (…) Ley 7600. Según lo observado durante el recorrido, se evidenció incumplimiento general con el Reglamento de la Ley 7600. Se detectaron no conformidades relacionados con diferentes niveles de pisos en los que no existen rampas, tampoco se cumple con las dimensiones de las aceras perimetrales, además de no conformidades por ausencia de techos en acera de ingreso, barandas, pendientes pronunciadas y acabado en superficies requeridas según legislación. Por otro lado, el único servicio sanitario observado no mostraba cumplimiento con la Ley 7600. Las dimensiones internas no eran las indicadas por Reglamento, tampoco cumplía al no disponer de los accesorios requeridos. (…) Condición actual de ordenes sanitarias N°0145-2017 y N°0038-2023. Según lo evidenciado durante el recorrido de inspección reciente, no se ha dado cumplimiento al presente con lo indicado en las órdenes sanitarias mencionadas. Cabe indicar que, el Ing. Rigoberto González Espinoza y el Arq. Eduardo Camacho Vargas, ambos de la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) del Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), según oficio DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023, con fecha del 21 de diciembre del 2023, presentaron a la Directora de la DIE un cronograma con la totalidad de actividades por realizar en dicho inmueble, iniciando en enero 2024 y finalizando en julio del 2025. Marco Legal. 1. Directriz N°DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S, coordinación interministerial para la atención de órdenes sanitarias. 2. Ley General de Salud, Ley Nº 5395. 3. Ley Orgánica del Ministerio de Salud, Ley Nº 5412. 4. Ley General de la Administración Pública, Nº 6227. 5. Ley 7600 “Igualdad de Oportunidades para las Personas con Discapacidad en Costa Rica” y su Reglamento. Conclusiones. 1. Elementos estructurales y no estructurales. Se detectaron no conformidades en la condición de un sector de la estructura de techos, se observaron daños en elementos como cerchas y clavadores que conformaban dicha estructura. Se observó falta de mantenimiento de láminas de zinc de la cubierta de techos. También se evidenció la presencia de grietas en el contrapiso de un costado del inmueble, ausencia de láminas del cielorraso y precintas dañadas en algunas zonas. 2. Sistema eléctrico. Se detectó que, una de las cajas de breakers no tenía tapa, además de ubicarse bastante cerca de la pila de lavado del comedor, condición que presentaba un potencial riesgo. 3. Aguas residuales. No fue posible ubicar el tanque séptico en el sitio por lo que se mantiene la no conformidad. Se observaron elementos como tuberías y cajas de registro las cuales se encontraban dañadas, se evidenció ausencia de mantenimiento y/o sustitución de algunos de estos elementos. Las aguas de pilas de lavado no eran dispuestas en forma sanitaria, dichas aguas no eran conducidas a algún tanque séptico u otro recolector debidamente diseñado para tal fin, eran destinadas a la misma canalización pluvial. 4. Sistema pluvial. Se encontraron incumplimientos relacionados con el estado de deterioro de los componentes del sistema. En varios sectores del inmueble los componentes de canalización de estas aguas de lluvia se encontraban en mal estado, se evidenciaron: canoas, cajas de registro, tuberías de bajantes dañadas (o ausentes), así como ausencia de mantenimiento en general. 5. Agua potable. El centro educativo no disponía de tanque alterno para almacenamiento de agua potable. 6. Entorno, seguridad del inmueble. El terreno no cuenta con un cerramiento perimetral tipo malla de seguridad. Ya se dio la sustracción de algunos artículos de valor según lo informado por el director. Asimismo representa un riesgo considerable para la integridad del estudiantado por la salida del perímetro seguro dentro del centro educativo. 7. Ley 7600. Incumplimiento general, se detectaron no conformidades relacionados con diferentes niveles de pisos en los que no existen rampas, tampoco se cumple con las dimensiones de las aceras perimetrales, además de la ausencia de techos en acera de ingreso, barandas, existen pendientes pronunciadas y el acabado en superficies no se apega a la legislación de accesibilidad universal. El único servicio sanitario observado no mostraba cumplimiento con la Ley 7600; las dimensiones internas no eran las indicadas por el Reglamento, tampoco cumplía al no disponer de los accesorios requeridos. 8. Condición de cumplimiento de órdenes sanitarias. Se evidenció durante el recorrido de inspección que, actualmente no se ha cumplido con lo indicado en las órdenes sanitarias N°0145-2017 y N°0038-2023. Recomendaciones. El presente informe muestra las valoraciones técnicas fundamentadas en la inspección realizada el martes 13 de febrero del 2023. El Área Rectora de la Salud deberá efectuar las acciones administrativas que, en su competencia, crea las más convenientes para garantizar el resguardo de la salud y seguridad de las personas. Área Rectora de Salud Turrialba. Según lo observado durante la reciente inspección del centro educativo, y dado que la generación de una nueva orden sanitaria solicitando un plan remedial no aportaría mayor contenido al proceso actual dado que recientemente (diciembre 2023) la DIE se pronunció sobre la atención de dicho centro educativo. Además, que lo ya indicado en la orden sanitaria N°0038-2023 con fecha 28 de marzo del 2023, reúne también las no conformidades detectadas en el pasado, según orden sanitaria N°0145-2017. Se recomienda al ARS Turrialba lo siguiente: -Solicitar a la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) la entrega del cronograma de atención al centro educativo escuela Santa Cristiana, advirtiendo que se solicitará la información periódica de su cumplimiento. Se solicitará de manera semestral a la DIE el envío de un informe de avance, evidenciando el cumplimiento del cronograma de activades entregado en diciembre 2023, esto para dar el debido seguimiento en atención a lo dispuesto por el Ministerio de Salud. -Dar respuesta al documento de la Sala Constitucional con fecha 06 de febrero de 2024 en relación con el proceso del recurso de amparo, en donde solicitan informar al Tribunal si los plazos y actuaciones informadas por las autoridades del MEP son compatibles o no con las instrucciones giradas por el Ministerio de Salud, atendiendo a lo ordenando en el proceso 22-017352-0007-CO”. Relata que con respecto al punto b de la resolución, Sofía Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud, procedió a la revisión de los documentos aportados, emitiendo el informe No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0101-2024, el cual indicó lo siguiente: “Al realizar la revisión del oficio DVM-ADIE-DM-0874-2023, suscrito por el Ing. Rigoberto González Espinoza, del Departamento de Mantenimiento de la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa, se indica que para el proceso de gestiones de proyecto dicho departamento indica un plazo de 3 meses. En lo que respecta la elaboración, revisión y autorización de estudios preliminares, ante proyectos, planos constructivos y presupuesto, se tiene un plazo de aproximadamente 2 meses (marzo-abril 2024). Una vez finalizado el proceso indican que la solicitud de recursos de ejecutar la obra se realizar en setiembre de 2024 y el inicio de obras se llevará a cabo en marzo 2025. Ante esta situación la DIE solicita estos plazos con las justificaciones de lo que conlleva el anteproyecto y el proceso legal que procede e indica que el tiempo de búsqueda de recursos económicos para la ejecución de la obra se requieren alrededor de 6 meses. Asimismo, se menciona que los plazos mencionados corresponden a procedimientos administrativos de contratación de obras, asesorías, entre otros, en los cuales se podrían presentar una eventualidad. Si bien es cierto, el cronograma se presenta de forma extemporánea, de acuerdo con la revisión documental los plazos indicados en el cronograma presentan justificaciones para la ejecución de estos. Dichos plazos son debidamente justificados y revisados por el personal competente y calificado del Ministerio de Educación Pública, los cuales conocen el proceso legal y administrativa que conlleva la ejecución de proyectos en la administración pública. Aunado a lo anterior, se realiza la visita conjunta con el Ing. Francisco José Alfaro Chavarría de la Unidad de Rectoría de la Salud, de la Región Central Este, según consta en el informe técnico MS-DRRSCE-URS-0061-2024, en donde se determina una serie de no conformidades principalmente en la ausencia de mantenimiento de los elementos infraestructurales que componen el inmueble, a pesar de que dichas inconsistencias deben ser debidamente subsanadas para velar por la seguridad de usuarios y colaboradores la persona profesional no detecta una inconformidad que represente un riesgo inminente. No obstante, resulta importante aclara qué el riesgo existe y que el acto administrativo fue presentado desde el año 2018, según se evidencia en el expediente, por lo que se considera relevante tomar en consideración la indicación del inciso de recomendaciones del informe técnico mencionado anteriormente, donde se indica: “Solicitar a la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) la entrega del cronograma de atención al centro educativo escuela Santa Cristiana, advirtiendo que se solicitará la información periódica de su cumplimiento. Se solicitará de manera semestral a la DIE el envío de un informe de avance en el cumplimiento del cronograma de activades entregado en diciembre 2023, esto para dar el debido seguimiento en atención a lo dispuesto por el Ministerio de Salud”. 1. CONCLUSIONES. En concordancia con la documentación presentada por la DIE y la visita conjunta con el ingeniero regional y el Área Rectora de Salud, se determina que los plazos indicados por la DIE se sustentan en el fundamento y justificaciones brindadas por las personas profesionales de dicha institución. La presentación del cronograma se realiza de forma extra temporáneo, no obstante, al evidenciarse durante la visita conjunta que las inconsistencias permanecen en el sitio, la presentación y ejecución del cronograma en los plazos indicados constituyen un insumo de importancia para el bienestar del estudiantado y personal administrativo considerando la situación actual del centro educativo”. Comenta que teniendo cuenta los informes expuestos, se determina que las discrepancias principales radican en la falta de mantenimiento de los elementos infraestructurales del inmueble. A pesar de que estas deficiencias deben subsanarse debidamente para garantizar la seguridad de los usuarios y el personal, los profesionales encargados de las inspecciones no han identificado ninguna inconformidad que represente un riesgo inminente. Sin embargo, el riesgo subsiste y que el acto administrativo fue emitido en el año 2018, según consta en el expediente. Por lo tanto, se solicitará a la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) que entregue un cronograma de atención para el centro educativo. Se requerirá que dicho cronograma sea acompañado por un informe semestral de avance en el cumplimiento de las actividades programadas entregado en diciembre de 2023. Adiciona que dicha medida se implementará con el fin de garantizar un seguimiento adecuado a la situación.

8.- En los procedimientos seguidos se han observado las prescripciones legales.

Redacta el Magistrado Delgado Faith; y,

Considerando:

I.- Objeto. La Ministra y la Directora de Infraestructura Educativa, ambas del Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), así como el Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, detallan las actuaciones llevadas a cabo con el fin de cumplir lo ordenado por esta Sala en la sentencia No. 2023-001061 de las 9:20 horas del 20 de enero de 2023. Pidieron además una prórroga de 19 meses para el cumplimiento.

II.- Hechos probados. De relevancia para la presente resolución, se estiman demostrados los siguientes hechos:

• 1)Mediante la sentencia No. 2023-001061 de las 9:20 horas del 20 de enero de 2023, la Sala dispuso lo siguiente: “Se declara con lugar el recurso. Se ordena a Luis Fernando Gómez Cordero, en su condición de Director a.i. del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba del Ministerio de Salud, o a quien en su lugar ocupe ese cargo, que ejecute todas las actuaciones dentro del ámbito de sus competencias y coordine lo necesario para que: a) dentro del plazo de UN MES, contado a partir de la notificación de esta sentencia, se realice una nueva inspección y se dispongan los plazos de cumplimiento para cada uno de los aspectos señalados en la orden sanitaria No. 145-2017 y; b) se lleve a cabo el seguimiento del cabal cumplimiento de los mismos. Se ordena a Anna Katharina Müller Castro y a Álvaro Mata Leitón, en sus calidades respectivas de Ministra y Director de Infraestructura Educativa, ambos del Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), o a quienes en sus lugares ocupen esos cargos, que ejecuten todas las actuaciones dentro del ámbito de sus competencias y coordinen lo necesario para que: a) se cumpla la orden sanitaria No. 145-2017, dentro de los plazos y según los requerimientos establecidos por el Ministerio de Salud a partir de la nueva inspección ordenada y; b) mientras se cumple la orden sanitaria en los términos dichos, se adopten todas las medidas pertinentes para garantizar la salud e integridad de la comunidad educativa, y la continuidad del proceso educativo. Se advierte a las autoridades recurridas que de conformidad con el artículo 71, de la Ley de esta Jurisdicción, se impondrá prisión de tres meses a dos años, o de veinte a sesenta días multa, a quien recibiere una orden que deba cumplir o hacer cumplir, dictada en un recurso de amparo y no la cumpliere o no la hiciere cumplir, siempre que el delito no esté más gravemente penado. Se condena al Estado al pago de las costas, daños y perjuicios causados con los hechos que sirven de base a esta declaratoria, los que se liquidarán en ejecución de sentencia de lo contencioso administrativo. Notifíquese” (los autos).
• 2)El 23 de enero de 2023, se notificó a las autoridades del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba del Ministerio de Salud y del Ministerio de Educación Pública, la sentencia No. 2023-001061 de las 9:20 horas del 20 de enero de 2023 (ver actas de notificación agregadas al expediente digital).
• 3)El 25 de enero de 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba realizó una visita de seguimiento de la orden sanitaria No. 0145-2017, y emitió el informe No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0045-2023, el cual indicó lo siguiente: “SITUACIÓN ENCONTRADA. La inspección in situ se realiza el 25 de enero de 2023, según consta en el acta de inspección N°009-2023 adjunta en el expediente. Al ser las 09:30 horas me apersonó al lugar en donde se encuentra la entrada abierta hacia las instalaciones, sin embargo, las aulas y comedor se encuentran cerrado y no se encuentra ninguna persona este día. A pesar de que no se logra ubicar una persona durante la vista, se realiza un recorrido por el lugar y se encuentra lo siguiente: • El servicio sanitario se encuentra abierto, por lo que se determinar que aún sigue sin cumplir con las dimensiones indicadas en la Ley 7600 de Igualdad de Oportunidades para Personas con Discapacidad. • Asimismo, las puertas no cuentan con el ancho mínimo de 0,90 cm. • El paso de la entrada de ingreso a la entrada de la escuela no se encuentra debidamente cubierto. • El perímetro no ha sido cerrado. • Los pasillos no cuentan con el ancho mínimo de 1,20 cm, acorde al Reglamento de la Ley 7600. CONCLUSIONES. No se logra verificar el cumplimiento de la totalidad de las disposiciones sanitarias de la orden sanitaria, sin embargo, al recorrer las instalaciones se evidencia un incumplimiento en diversos aspectos a nivel estructural que no han sido modificadas acorde a lo indicado en el acto administrativo. RECOMENDACIÓN. Reprogramar la visita para poder realizar el recorrido completo de todo el centro educativo para verificar los puntos faltantes de la orden sanitaria” (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).
• 4)El 7 de febrero de 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba realizó una visita de inspección y emitió el informe No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0085-2022, en el cual se indicó lo siguiente: “SITUACIÓN ENCONTRADA. La segunda inspección in situ se realiza el 07 de febrero del presente año 2023, según consta en el acta de inspección N°018-2023 adjunta en el expediente. Al ser las 10:26 horas me apersonó al lugar y me atiende el Sr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, cédula: 303250035, en su calidad de director del centro educativo Escuela Santa Cristina, ubicado a 4 kilómetros sur de la plaza de La Suiza, Santa Cristina, La Suiza. El director indica que, en octubre de 2022, se realiza una reunión en conjunto a la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE), Junta Directiva, entre otros. Según comentar, se realiza un recorrido por las instalaciones y la DIE toma fotografía del sitio, al día de la visita no se había notificado ningún otro avance. Actualmente el comedor no se encuentra en uso por decisión de la junta directiva debido a las condiciones físico-sanitarios del inmueble. Al ingresar al comedor, se evidencia un deterioro en techo, paredes y pisos. El director indica que ha habido presencia de plagas como murciélagos y se han encontrado serpientes. Asimismo, el director señala su preocupación por la falta de una malla perimetral, debido a la colindancia con zona boscosa y barrancos, en donde existe un riesgo alto para los y las estudiantes (…) Aunado a lo anterior, se identifica un manejo inadecuado de aguas servidas, falta de manejo de aguas pluviales en la parte trasera del comedor y la caja de breaker no se encuentra con tapa el día de la visita. CONCLUSIONES. Del total de las 35 disposiciones sanitarias emitidas en la orden sanitaria en mención se determina durante la visita el cumplimiento de 8 de estas, identificándose como faltante principal los cambios en infraestructura, en el servicio sanitario y comedor. El comedor actualmente no se encuentra funcionando por decisión de la junta directiva debido a las malas condiciones físico-sanitarias de este. De acuerdo con la persona que atiende no existe un seguimiento oportuno por parte de la DIE del MEP, por lo que se desconoce con exactitud cuando serán realizadas las modificaciones ordenadas en el acto administrativo” (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).
• 5)El 13 de febrero de 2023, Sofía Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud, junto con Francisco Alfaro Chavarría, de la Unidad de Rectoría de la Salud de la Región Central Este, realizaron una visita y emitieron el informe No. MS-DRRSCEURS-0061-2024, donde se indicó lo siguiente: “Situación encontrada. El centro educativo Santa Cristina fue fundado en 1981, es una escuela unidocente conformada por solamente un aula y el comedor estudiantil. Esta escuela tiene una población de 11 estudiantes y 4 administrativos, incluyendo al docente. Durante la inspección se utilizó la Guía de inspección físico-sanitaria para edificaciones de uso educativo. Condiciones físicas. Elementos estructurales. De manera general, los elementos estructurales como: vigas, columnas, losas de contrapiso y paredes, observados en las diversas áreas del inmueble se encontraban en condiciones aceptables. Sin embargo, se evidenció la ausencia de mantenimiento periódico en algunos de estos elementos. Se observó la composición del aula y comedor en materiales diversos como: elementos de concreto, mampostería (bloques), elementos de acero, paredes de cerramiento internas en materiales livianos como: láminas de zinc, madera y láminas de “gypsum” o similar. (…) Las paredes mostraban cumplimiento de verticalidad, los elementos horizontales (vigas) no mostraban deflexiones, tampoco se apreciaron columnas con pandeo. Durante el recorrido no se detectaron áreas en el inmueble con presencia de grietas en los elementos estructurales como columnas y vigas. Por otro lado, si se detectaron daños en elementos como cerchas y clavadores que conformaban la estructura de techos. También se evidenció la presencia de grietas en el contrapiso de un costado del inmueble. (…) Elementos no estructurales. Se detectaron algunas no conformidades en las láminas de cielorraso al encontrarse sueltas sin la correcta sujeción, también se evidenciaron áreas específicas sin cielorraso por completo y daños en las precintas. (…) Durante el recorrido no se detectaron daños en elementos como: puertas, ventanas ni vidrios, en general se observaban en condiciones aceptables. Tampoco se apreciaron daños en las estructuras electromecánicas de diversa índole. Con respecto a la cubierta de techo, se detectó ausencia en el mantenimiento periódico para evitar la corrosión de láminas y prolongar su vida útil. (…) Instalación eléctrica. Se observó la disposición de medidor eléctrico e interruptor principal. También se disponía de varias cajas de “breakers”, sin embargo, se detectó como no conformidad que una de estas no tenía la respectiva tapa, además de ubicarse bastante cerca a la pila de lavado del comedor. (…) En general, se observaron terminales eléctricas en buen estado físico y sujetas de manera firme (apagadores, tomacorrientes, plafones, lámparas), el cableado eléctrico se encontraba debidamente canalizado en tuberías, además de observar cajas de empalme con su respectiva tapa. También se observaron luminarias con protección para evitar desprendimientos de los fluorescentes. (…) Condiciones sanitarias. Aguas residuales. La disposición de las aguas residuales (aguas negras) del centro educativo es a tanque séptico según lo informado por el director, sin embargo, no fue posible ubicarlo en el sitio durante la inspección. Durante la inspección se detectaron algunas no conformidades relacionadas con las aguas residuales, mencionadas a continuación: Se observaron elementos como tuberías y cajas de registro los cuales se encontraban en mal estado de conservación, se evidenció ausencia de mantenimiento y/o sustitución de algunos de estos elementos mencionados. También se observó que, las aguas residuales provenientes de pilas de lavado no eran dispuestas en forma sanitaria, dichas aguas no eran conducidas a algún tanque séptico u otro recolector debidamente diseñado para tal fin, se evidenció que eran destinadas a la misma canalización pluvial. (…) La loza sanitaria se observó en condiciones aceptables de conservación y mantenimiento; los lavatorios e inodoros se encontraban en buen estado. (…) La cantidad de servicios sanitarios contabilizados durante la inspección no era acorde para el nivel de enseñanza del centro educativo según la cantidad de estudiantes (11). Un inodoro y un mingitorio por cada 30 alumnos, un inodoro por cada 20 alumnas, un lavado por cada 60 estudiantes. Se mantiene la no conformidad al encontrar únicamente un servicio sanitario para todos los estudiantes, sin separar alumnas y alumnos. Por otro lado, la cantidad de bebederos también era acorde a lo establecido en la normativa. Un bebedero por cada 100 estudiantes. Aguas pluviales. En términos generales el manejo de las aguas pluviales no era conforme, se encontraron incumplimientos relacionados con el estado de deterioro de los componentes del sistema. En varios sectores del inmueble los componentes de canalización de estas aguas de lluvia se encontraban en mal estado, se evidenciaron canoas, cajas de registro, tuberías de bajantes dañadas (o ausentes), así como ausencia de mantenimiento en general. También se menciona como no conformidad ya mencionada, la descarga de las aguas residuales de pilas de lavado hacia la canalización pluvial. (…) Agua potable. Según lo informado, el servicio de agua potable del inmueble es brindado de manera continua por la ASADA Santa Cristina. El centro educativo no disponía de tanque alterno para almacenamiento de agua potable. Condiciones del entorno. Según lo observado durante el recorrido y de lo confirmado por el director del centro educativo, no se ha presentado afectación alguna por inundaciones en el sitio, tampoco por deslizamientos en el terreno donde se ubica el inmueble. Como observación relevante, el terreno no cuenta con un cerramiento perimetral tipo malla de seguridad. Según lo mencionado por el director, meses atrás se dio un robo en el centro educativo, se sustrajeron algunos artículos de valor según lo informado. Iluminación y ventilación. Se observó que el aula existente tenía buena iluminación natural, además de disponer de luminarias. También se evidenció que esta aula tenía ventilación aceptable. (…) Ley 7600. Según lo observado durante el recorrido, se evidenció incumplimiento general con el Reglamento de la Ley 7600. Se detectaron no conformidades relacionados con diferentes niveles de pisos en los que no existen rampas, tampoco se cumple con las dimensiones de las aceras perimetrales, además de no conformidades por ausencia de techos en acera de ingreso, barandas, pendientes pronunciadas y acabado en superficies requeridas según legislación. Por otro lado, el único servicio sanitario observado no mostraba cumplimiento con la Ley 7600. Las dimensiones internas no eran las indicadas por Reglamento, tampoco cumplía al no disponer de los accesorios requeridos. (…) Condición actual de ordenes sanitarias N°0145-2017 y N°0038-2023. Según lo evidenciado durante el recorrido de inspección reciente, no se ha dado cumplimiento al presente con lo indicado en las órdenes sanitarias mencionadas. Cabe indicar que, el Ing. Rigoberto González Espinoza y el Arq. Eduardo Camacho Vargas, ambos de la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) del Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), según oficio DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023, con fecha del 21 de diciembre del 2023, presentaron a la Directora de la DIE un cronograma con la totalidad de actividades por realizar en dicho inmueble, iniciando en enero 2024 y finalizando en julio del 2025. Marco Legal. 1. Directriz N°DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S, coordinación interministerial para la atención de órdenes sanitarias. 2. Ley General de Salud, Ley Nº 5395. 3. Ley Orgánica del Ministerio de Salud, Ley Nº 5412. 4. Ley General de la Administración Pública, Nº 6227. 5. Ley 7600 “Igualdad de Oportunidades para las Personas con Discapacidad en Costa Rica” y su Reglamento. Conclusiones. 1.Elementos estructurales y no estructurales. Se detectaron no conformidades en la condición de un sector de la estructura de techos, se observaron daños en elementos como cerchas y clavadores que conformaban dicha estructura. Se observó falta de mantenimiento de láminas de zinc de la cubierta de techos. También se evidenció la presencia de grietas en el contrapiso de un costado del inmueble, ausencia de láminas del cielorraso y precintas dañadas en algunas zonas. 2.Sistema eléctrico. Se detectó que, una de las cajas de breakers no tenía tapa, además de ubicarse bastante cerca de la pila de lavado del comedor, condición que presentaba un potencial riesgo. 3.Aguas residuales. No fue posible ubicar el tanque séptico en el sitio por lo que se mantiene la no conformidad. Se observaron elementos como tuberías y cajas de registro las cuales se encontraban dañadas, se evidenció ausencia de mantenimiento y/o sustitución de algunos de estos elementos. Las aguas de pilas de lavado no eran dispuestas en forma sanitaria, dichas aguas no eran conducidas a algún tanque séptico u otro recolector debidamente diseñado para tal fin, eran destinadas a la misma canalización pluvial. 4. Sistema pluvial. Se encontraron incumplimientos relacionados con el estado de deterioro de los componentes del sistema. En varios sectores del inmueble los componentes de canalización de estas aguas de lluvia se encontraban en mal estado, se evidenciaron: canoas, cajas de registro, tuberías de bajantes dañadas (o ausentes), así como ausencia de mantenimiento en general. 5. Agua potable. El centro educativo no disponía de tanque alterno para almacenamiento de agua potable. 6. Entorno, seguridad del inmueble. El terreno no cuenta con un cerramiento perimetral tipo malla de seguridad. Ya se dio la sustracción de algunos artículos de valor según lo informado por el director. Asimismo representa un riesgo considerable para la integridad del estudiantado por la salida del perímetro seguro dentro del centro educativo. 7. Ley 7600. Incumplimiento general, se detectaron no conformidades relacionados con diferentes niveles de pisos en los que no existen rampas, tampoco se cumple con las dimensiones de las aceras perimetrales, además de la ausencia de techos en acera de ingreso, barandas, existen pendientes pronunciadas y el acabado en superficies no se apega a la legislación de accesibilidad universal. El único servicio sanitario observado no mostraba cumplimiento con la Ley 7600; las dimensiones internas no eran las indicadas por el Reglamento, tampoco cumplía al no disponer de los accesorios requeridos. 8.Condición de cumplimiento de órdenes sanitarias. Se evidenció durante el recorrido de inspección que, actualmente no se ha cumplido con lo indicado en las órdenes sanitarias N°0145-2017 y N°0038-2023. Recomendaciones. El presente informe muestra las valoraciones técnicas fundamentadas en la inspección realizada el martes 13 de febrero del 2023. El Área Rectora de la Salud deberá efectuar las acciones administrativas que, en su competencia, crea las más convenientes para garantizar el resguardo de la salud y seguridad de las personas. Área Rectora de Salud Turrialba. Según lo observado durante la reciente inspección del centro educativo, y dado que la generación de una nueva orden sanitaria solicitando un plan remedial no aportaría mayor contenido al proceso actual dado que recientemente (diciembre 2023) la DIE se pronunció sobre la atención de dicho centro educativo. Además, que lo ya indicado en la orden sanitaria N°0038-2023 con fecha 28 de marzo del 2023, reúne también las no conformidades detectadas en el pasado, según orden sanitaria N°0145-2017. Se recomienda al ARS Turrialba lo siguiente: -Solicitar a la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) la entrega del cronograma de atención al centro educativo escuela Santa Cristiana, advirtiendo que se solicitará la información periódica de su cumplimiento. Se solicitará de manera semestral a la DIE el envío de un informe de avance, evidenciando el cumplimiento del cronograma de activades entregado en diciembre 2023, esto para dar el debido seguimiento en atención a lo dispuesto por el Ministerio de Salud. -Dar respuesta al documento de la Sala Constitucional con fecha 06 de febrero de 2024 en relación con el proceso del recurso de amparo, en donde solicitan informar al Tribunal si los plazos y actuaciones informadas por las autoridades del MEP son compatibles o no con las instrucciones giradas por el Ministerio de Salud, atendiendo a lo ordenando en el proceso 22-017352-0007-CO” (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).
• 6)El 28 de marzo de 2023, el Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba del Ministerio de Salud atendiendo las recomendaciones del informe técnico MS-DRRSCE-DARSTIT-0085-2023, suscrito por Sofía Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud, procedió a girar la orden sanitaria No. 0038-2023 (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).
• 7)El 28 de marzo de 2023, el Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba del Ministerio de Salud le notificó al señor Javier Aguilar Montenegro, representante legal de la Escuela Santa Cristina La Suiza, la orden sanitaria No. 0038-2023, donde se le indicó lo siguiente: “La autoridad de salud le ordena a través de este acto administrativo, proceder con lo indicado a continuación: I. ACCESO. a. Accesibilidad según la Ley 7600 de Igualdad de Oportunidad para Personas con Discapacidad y su reglamento. II. SERVICIOS SANITARIOS. a. Disponer de al menos un servicio sanitario que cuente con las siguientes características: Puertas de 0,90 cm de ancho mínimo que, y que abran hacia afuera, cubículos para inodoros instalados cargados a un lado de la pared de fondo: profundidad mínima: 2,25 mts y ancho mínimo 1,55 mts, instalados al centro de la pared de fondo: profundidad mínima: 2,25 mts y ancho mínimo: 2,25 mts. b. Accesorios como: toalleros, papeleras, pañeras y agarraderas, se instalarán a una altura máxima de 0,90 mts. c. Los espejos se instalarán a una altura máxima de su borde inferior de 0,80 mts. d. Debe contar con servicios sanitarios separados para el personal docente y administrativo, separado por sexo y en buen estado. III. NORMAS CONSTRUCTIVAS. a. Todas las puertas deben tener un ancho mínimo de 0,90 m. b. Todas las edificaciones del centro educativo deben estar comunicadas por medio de pasos cubiertos, cumpliendo lo estipulado en la Ley 7600. c. La rampa de acceso para personas con discapacidad debe contar con las siguientes características: Tener ancho mínimo de 1,20 m. Baranda o pasamanos a 0,90 m desde el nivel del piso terminado. Textura de piso antideslizante. d. Los pasillos deben tener como mínimo un ancho libre de obstáculos, de 2,40 m para los primeros 400 m² de planta útil, y se debe aumentar a razón de 0,60 m por cada 100,00 m adicionales o fracción. e. Los pisos de los pasillos que se encuentren desprotegidos de la lluvia deberán de ser antiderrapante. IV. CONDICIONES DE SEGURIDAD. a. Todo el perímetro del lugar deberá cerrarse. b. El Plan de Atención de Emergencias debe ser elaborado, implementado conforme con lo establecido en el Decreto Ejecutivo No. 39502 - MP del 10 de noviembre de 2015 "Normas de Planes de Preparativos y Respuesta ante Emergencias para Centros Laborales o de Ocupación Pública”. Este plan se debe actualizar cada dos años, o cuando se hayan variado las condiciones de riesgo y debe ser acorde a las características y actividad que se realice en el establecimiento. c. Contar con alimentación de emergencia para iluminación de las salidas. V. MANEJO DE RESIDUOS. a. Todo ente generador debe contar y mantener actualizado un Programa de Manejo Integral de Residuos, de acuerdo con lo tipificado en la Ley 8839 de la gestión integral de residuos y su reglamento. Elaborar e implementar el Programa de Gestión Integral de Residuos, según lo indicado en el Reglamento General a la Ley para la Gestión integral de Residuos N°37567- S-MINAET-H, anexo 1. b. Las excretas, las aguas negras, las servidas y las pluviales, deberán ser eliminadas adecuada y sanitariamente a fin de evitar la contaminación del suelo y de las fuentes naturales de agua para el uso y consumo humano, la formación de criaderos de vectores y enfermedades y la contaminación del aire mediante condiciones que atenten contra su pureza o calidad. VI. ÁREA DE COMEDOR. a. Se deben eliminar todos los equipos o materiales en desuso que puedan constituirse en atracción y refugio para insectos y roedores. b. Las edificaciones se deben encontrar en buenas condiciones física e higiénicas. c. Las paredes deben ser de material impermeable, lisas, fáciles de lavar y desinfectar y de color claro deben estar en buen estado de mantenimiento e higiene. d. Las ventanas deben estar provistas de protección contra insectos u otros animales. El sistema de protección se debe desmontar con facilidad para su limpieza y mantenimiento. e. Las fuentes lumínicas se deben encontrar con protectores. f. Se debe contar con trampas de grasas y aceites y se deben mantener en buen estado de funcionamiento e higiene g. Se debe desarrollar y tener en ejecución un plan de control de plagas documentado. Cuando el control de plagas requiera la aplicación de plaguicidas, ésta debe ser realizada por personal capacitado. Se debe llevar un registro de las actividades y aplicaciones que permita evidenciar su cumplimiento. Los productos para control de plagas deben estar autorizados por el Ministerio de Salud. Cuando el control de plagas sea realizado por empresas que brindan ese servicio, éstas deberán estar autorizadas por el Ministerio de Salud. h. Contar con un Programa de Higiene y Desinfección documentado, en el cual se incluyan los procedimientos de limpieza y desinfección detallados en el artículo N˚60 del Reglamento para los Servicios de Alimentación al Público. El personal destacado en el área de preparación de alimentos debe llevar ropa de trabajo limpia, cobertor de cabello, calzado cerrado de material no absorbente. i. Las cajas de breaker deben contar con tapa. j. El cielo raso debe ser de construcción sólida, tener un diseño y acabado que impida la acumulación de suciedad, los materiales utilizados deben ser lisos y resistentes a las operaciones de limpieza. La altura del entre cielo raso y el piso de los establecimientos aquí regulados debe ser mayor o igual a 2,50 metros” (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).
• 8)El 21 de agosto de 2023, Sofia Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, realizó una visita de verificación de la orden sanitaria No. 0038-2023, emitiendo el informe No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0596-2023, donde se indicó lo siguiente: “SITUACIÓN ENCONTRADA. La inspección in situ se realiza el 21 de agosto del presente año al ser las 10:00 horas me recibe el Sr. Álvaro Ulloa Roda, cédula:303250035, en su calidad de director. En el momento de la visita se me indica que no se ha realizado ninguna visita por parte de algún funcionario de la DIEE, asimismo no han tenido una respuesta oportuna con respecto al nuevo acto administrativo girado. El comedor estudiantil permanece cerrado, dado los riesgos en la infraestructura. CONCLUSIONES. No se cumple con el acto administrativo girado, no se evidencia ninguna modificación o inicio de obras” (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).
• 9)El 21 de diciembre de 2023, mediante el oficio No. DVM-A-DIE-DM-0874-2023, suscrito por Rigoberto González Espinoza, en su condición de funcionario del Departamento de Mantenimiento de la DIE del MEP, se indicó lo siguiente: “1…Acciones realizadas para la atención de lo dispuesto por la Sala Constitucional de la Corte Suprema de Justicia: ▪ Con motivo de la asignación al Departamento de Mantenimiento No. I-U-C2043-22-149 por parte del Departamento de Programación y Seguimiento, ambos de la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa, se visita el centro educativo el 27 de octubre del 2022 a fin de valorar las condiciones actuales de la planta física de la escuela versus lo indicado por el Ministerio de Salud mediante la orden sanitaria No.145-2017. ▪ Se estableció comunicación por correo electrónico con el Área Rectora de Salud de la zona para solicitar el informe y/o orden sanitaria resultante de la visita realizada por dicho ente (según lo comunicado por el señor Álvaro Ulloa Roda, director de la escuela) para analizar con base en la circular No.DM-JG-3089-2019-MEP-S los criterios sobre los aspectos por atender y los plazos establecidos (en procura de considerar posibles nuevos requerimientos) y así puedan incluirse en el planteamiento final del proyecto (cuyo abarca específicamente lo señalado en la orden sanitaria 145-2017). ▪ A continuación, se describen las acciones emprendidas para dar una solución definitiva a la problemática relacionada con el desarrollo de obras de infraestructura civil acciones emprendidas desde mayo 2021 a diciembre del 2023: ▪ Se analiza la reubicación del centro educativo de acuerdo a la directriz en la circular DVM-A-DIE-0025-CIR-2019, Valoración de Escuelas Unidocentes y en informe DVM-ADIE-DDO-0558-2022, de del 27 de Junio del 2022 se concluye de que no es viable la reubicación de la población estudiantil en el centro educativo próximo. ▪ El 12 de agosto del 2022 se les indica a los integrantes de la administración del centro educativo que los recursos existentes serán utilizados para el proceso de contratación de servicios profesionales dada la solicitud del presidente de Junta para utilizar los recursos. ▪ El 22 de agosto del 2022, mediante el documento DVM-A-DIE-DPS- 0245-2022 se hace el traslado del caso para ser atendido por el Departamento de Mantenimiento (DM) y el expediente fen versión física, el 31 de agosto del 2022 al profesional Ing. Allan Ramírez, coordinador de las ordenes sanitarias y recursos de amparo. ▪ El 27 de octubre de octubre del 2022 se realiza la visita al sitio para la valoración del caso de acuerdo a lo indicado por el procedimiento a seguir en el DM. ▪ En octubre d l 2023 se hace inducción en el tema para ser atendido por el profesional Rigoberto González Espinoza y se realiza una coordinación con los funcionarios del Ministerio de Salud para el respectivo abordaje y revisión de orden sanitaria. ▪ Se actualiza el informe de diagnóstico, a la fecha del día 14 de diciembre del 2023, documento identificado como DVM-A- DIE-DM-0862-2023, mismo que contiene las obras por impulsar en apego a lo solicitado por el Ministerio de Salud y sus costos asociados, insumo técnico que permitirá iniciar las gestiones de contratación respectivas. 2. Acciones por realizar para la atención de lo dispuesto por la Sala Constitucional de la Corte Suprema de Justicia: ▪ En enero del 2024 el Departamento de Mantenimiento gestionará la solicitud de la autorización técnica ante el Departamento de Programación y Seguimiento de la DIE, para que esta se le remita a la Junta de Educación de la Escuela Santa Cristina y realice la contratación de servicios profesionales. ▪ Ya se cuenta con los recursos económicos en las cuentas de la Junta de Educación para que ésta realice en primera instancia la contratación de servicios profesionales, para posteriormente realizar la contratación para la construcción de las Obras. ▪ Los Servicios profesionales que debe gestionar la Junta, conlleva la contratación del profesional que se encargarán de diseñar (elaborar conforme a la normativa del Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos de Costa Ricas: estudios preliminares, técnicos, anteproyecto, planos constructivos, especificaciones técnicas, presupuesto detallado, cronograma de obra e inspección de ejecución de obras) y tramitar el proyecto ante las instancias correspondientes. ▪ Una vez realizado el paso anterior y con los insumos entregados al DIE, se realizará las respectivas revisiones para continuar con el siguiente paso, la solicitud de recursos, para que la Junta realice la contratación de las obras, ya con el contenido económico, podrá la junta iniciar el proceso de contratación de una empresa constructora que será la encargada de llevar a cabo la ejecución de las obras. ▪ El plazo estimado para la realización de las gestiones de formulación, contratación de servicios profesionales, diseño, tramitología de planos, contratación de obra y ejecución del proyecto, es de 3 meses, plazo que iniciaría el próximo año. ▪ Los recursos para la construcción sería solicitados para setiembre del 2024 hasta tanto se cuente con los recursos correspondientes, mismos que quedan supeditados a la disponibilidad presupuestaria para la asignación de los recursos por parte del Ministerio de Hacienda a la Junta de Educación para el impulso de dichas gestiones y a la implementación por parte del Ministerio de Educación de las nuevas disposiciones jurídicas, administrativas y procedimentales en torno a la Ley y Reglamento General de Contratación Pública, vigente desde el primero de diciembre de 2022. ▪ A continuación, se presenta un cronograma con las actividades por realizar: (…) A continuación, se describen las etapas del cronograma presentado: 1. Solicitud y autorización de contratación de servicios profesionales para anteproyecto, diseño, presupuesto. (inicia enero del 2024). 2. Revisión de estado de los recursos existentes, condiciones jurídicas de la Junta y legalidad de la propiedad (febrero del 2024). 3. Contratación de profesional para diseño (febrero a marzo del 2024). 4. Elaboración, revisión y autorización de estudios preliminares (marzo del 2024). 5. Elaboración, revisión y autorización de anteproyecto (marzo del 2024). 6. Elaboración, revisión y autorización de planos constructivos y especificaciones técnicas (marzo del 2024). 7. Elaboración, revisión y autorización de presupuestos de obras (abril 2024). 8. Solicitud de recursos para ejecución de obras (hasta setiembre del 2024). 9. Depósito de recursos para ejecución de obras (hasta noviembre del 2024). 10. Procesos de contratación de obra (de diciembre a febrero del 2025). 11. Ejecución y entrega de obras (iniciando en marzo del 2025 y finaliza en Julio del 2025). De acuerdo con el criterio experto, se solicita a la Honorable Sala que se otorgue un plazo adicional igual a 19 meses, para la atención integral (finalización del proceso de contratación de servicios profesionales, desarrollo de la consultoría de diseño, el proceso de contratación de obra y la ejecución de esta del proyecto para este centro educativo, el cual se justifica por los siguientes motivos: • Que, en el desarrollo de los estudios técnicos, estudios preliminares, anteproyecto, planos constructivos y especificaciones técnicas, presupuesto detallado, trámite de viabilidad ambiental en SETENA, cronograma de flujo de desembolsos, se presente imprevistos no detectados en la formulación del proyecto inicial. • El tiempo de búsqueda de recursos económicos para la ejecución de obra: al determinarse el presupuesto de las obras, se puede proceder a solicitar a la Dirección de la DIE, el monto necesario para cubrir el costo de las obras por construir, a fin de gestionar su debido depósito para que posteriormente se realice la contratación de la empresa responsable de la construcción de las obras. Para estas diligencias, se considera que la duración es de 6 meses. • El plazo para otorgar la autorización técnica de previo a que las Juntas de Educación y/o Administrativas puedan acudir a un procedimiento de contratación de obra y cubrir las necesidades de infraestructura en los centros educativos. • La Junta debe llevar a cabo un segundo procedimiento de contratación para la ejecución de las obras, con la asesoría del consultor externo contratado en la etapa de desarrollo de la consultoría de diseño, en la cual, se pueden presentar retrasos por eventuales circunstancian como: la no recepción de ofertas, que las ofertas que lleguen no cumplan y se deba declarar infructuoso el procedimiento, así como el plazo recursivo que tienen estos procedimientos, entre otros” (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).
• 10)El 17 de enero de 2024, la Ministra y la Directora de Infraestructura Educativa, ambas del Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), detallan las actuaciones llevadas a cabo con el fin de cumplir lo ordenado por esta Sala en la sentencia No. 2023-001061 de las 9:20 horas del 20 de enero de 2023, y solicitaron una ampliación del plazo por 19 meses (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).
• 11)El 18 de enero de 2024, se dio audiencia al Director a.i. del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba del Ministerio de Salud (los autos).
• 12)El 19 de enero de 2024, se notificó la resolución de audiencia al Director a.i. del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba del Ministerio de Salud (ver actas de notificación agregadas al expediente digital).
• 13)El 26 de febrero de 2024, mediante el oficio No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0101-2024, Sofía Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud le comunicó al Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, lo siguiente: “Al realizar la revisión del oficio DVM-ADIE-DM-0874-2023, suscrito por el Ing. Rigoberto González Espinoza, del Departamento de Mantenimiento de la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa, se indica que para el proceso de gestiones de proyecto dicho departamento indica un plazo de 3 meses. En lo que respecta la elaboración, revisión y autorización de estudios preliminares, ante proyectos, planos constructivos y presupuesto, se tiene un plazo de aproximadamente 2 meses (marzo-abril 2024). Una vez finalizado el proceso indican que la solicitud de recursos de ejecutar la obra se realizar en setiembre de 2024 y el inicio de obras se llevará a cabo en marzo 2025. Ante esta situación la DIE solicita estos plazos con las justificaciones de lo que conlleva el anteproyecto y el proceso legal que procede e indica que el tiempo de búsqueda de recursos económicos para la ejecución de la obra se requieren alrededor de 6 meses. Asimismo, se menciona que los plazos mencionados corresponden a procedimientos administrativos de contratación de obras, asesorías, entre otros, en los cuales se podrían presentar una eventualidad. Si bien es cierto, el cronograma se presenta de forma extemporánea, de acuerdo con la revisión documental los plazos indicados en el cronograma presentan justificaciones para la ejecución de estos. Dichos plazos son debidamente justificados y revisados por el personal competente y calificado del Ministerio de Educación Pública, los cuales conocen el proceso legal y administrativa que conlleva la ejecución de proyectos en la administración pública. Aunado a lo anterior, se realiza la visita conjunta con el Ing. Francisco José Alfaro Chavarría de la Unidad de Rectoría de la Salud, de la Región Central Este, según consta en el informe técnico MS-DRRSCE-URS-0061-2024, en donde se determina una serie de no conformidades principalmente en la ausencia de mantenimiento de los elementos infraestructurales que componen el inmueble, a pesar de que dichas inconsistencias deben ser debidamente subsanadas para velar por la seguridad de usuarios y colaboradores la persona profesional no detecta una inconformidad que represente un riesgo inminente. No obstante, resulta importante aclara qué el riesgo existe y que el acto administrativo fue presentado desde el año 2018, según se evidencia en el expediente, por lo que se considera relevante tomar en consideración la indicación del inciso de recomendaciones del informe técnico mencionado anteriormente, donde se indica: “Solicitar a la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) la entrega del cronograma de atención al centro educativo escuela Santa Cristiana, advirtiendo que se solicitará la información periódica de su cumplimiento. Se solicitará de manera semestral a la DIE el envío de un informe de avance en el cumplimiento del cronograma de activades entregado en diciembre 2023, esto para dar el debido seguimiento en atención a lo dispuesto por el Ministerio de Salud”. 1. CONCLUSIONES. En concordancia con la documentación presentada por la DIE y la visita conjunta con el ingeniero regional y el Área Rectora de Salud, se determina que los plazos indicados por la DIE se sustentan en el fundamento y justificaciones brindadas por las personas profesionales de dicha institución. La presentación del cronograma se realiza de forma extra temporáneo, no obstante, al evidenciarse durante la visita conjunta que las inconsistencias permanecen en el sitio, la presentación y ejecución del cronograma en los plazos indicados constituyen un insumo de importancia para el bienestar del estudiantado y personal administrativo considerando la situación actual del centro educativo” (ver informes de las autoridades recurridas y prueba aportada al expediente digital).

IV.- Sobre las gestiones presentadas. En el presente asunto, la Ministra y la Directora de Infraestructura Educativa, ambas del Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), así como el Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, detallaron las actuaciones llevadas a cabo con el fin de cumplir lo ordenado por esta Sala en la sentencia No. 2023-001061 de las 9:20 horas del 20 de enero de 2023. Asimismo solicitaron la ampliación del plazo por 19 meses.

El Magistrado Instructor dio traslado al Ministerio de Salud sobre la documentación aportada por el Ministerio de Educación Pública. El 26 de febrero de 2024, mediante el oficio No. MS-DRRSCE-DARST-IT-0101-2024, Sofía Cordero Núñez, del Proceso de Regulación de la Salud le comunicó al Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba, lo siguiente: “(…) Al realizar la revisión del oficio DVM-ADIE-DM-0874-2023, suscrito por el Ing. Rigoberto González Espinoza, del Departamento de Mantenimiento de la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa, se indica que para el proceso de gestiones de proyecto dicho departamento indica un plazo de 3 meses. En lo que respecta la elaboración, revisión y autorización de estudios preliminares, ante proyectos, planos constructivos y presupuesto, se tiene un plazo de aproximadamente 2 meses (marzo-abril 2024). Una vez finalizado el proceso indican que la solicitud de recursos de ejecutar la obra se realizar en setiembre de 2024 y el inicio de obras se llevará a cabo en marzo 2025. Ante esta situación la DIE solicita estos plazos con las justificaciones de lo que conlleva el anteproyecto y el proceso legal que procede e indica que el tiempo de búsqueda de recursos económicos para la ejecución de la obra se requieren alrededor de 6 meses. Asimismo, se menciona que los plazos mencionados corresponden a procedimientos administrativos de contratación de obras, asesorías, entre otros, en los cuales se podrían presentar una eventualidad. Si bien es cierto, el cronograma se presenta de forma extemporánea, de acuerdo con la revisión documental los plazos indicados en el cronograma presentan justificaciones para la ejecución de estos. Dichos plazos son debidamente justificados y revisados por el personal competente y calificado del Ministerio de Educación Pública, los cuales conocen el proceso legal y administrativa que conlleva la ejecución de proyectos en la administración pública. Aunado a lo anterior, se realiza la visita conjunta con el Ing. Francisco José Alfaro Chavarría de la Unidad de Rectoría de la Salud, de la Región Central Este, según consta en el informe técnico MS-DRRSCE-URS-0061-2024, en donde se determina una serie de no conformidades principalmente en la ausencia de mantenimiento de los elementos infraestructurales que componen el inmueble, a pesar de que dichas inconsistencias deben ser debidamente subsanadas para velar por la seguridad de usuarios y colaboradores la persona profesional no detecta una inconformidad que represente un riesgo inminente. No obstante, resulta importante aclara qué el riesgo existe y que el acto administrativo fue presentado desde el año 2018, según se evidencia en el expediente, por lo que se considera relevante tomar en consideración la indicación del inciso de recomendaciones del informe técnico mencionado anteriormente, donde se indica: “Solicitar a la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa (DIE) la entrega del cronograma de atención al centro educativo escuela Santa Cristiana, advirtiendo que se solicitará la información periódica de su cumplimiento. Se solicitará de manera semestral a la DIE el envío de un informe de avance en el cumplimiento del cronograma de activades entregado en diciembre 2023, esto para dar el debido seguimiento en atención a lo dispuesto por el Ministerio de Salud”. 1. CONCLUSIONES. En concordancia con la documentación presentada por la DIE y la visita conjunta con el ingeniero regional y el Área Rectora de Salud, se determina que los plazos indicados por la DIE se sustentan en el fundamento y justificaciones brindadas por las personas profesionales de dicha institución. La presentación del cronograma se realiza de forma extra temporáneo, no obstante, al evidenciarse durante la visita conjunta que las inconsistencias permanecen en el sitio, la presentación y ejecución del cronograma en los plazos indicados constituyen un insumo de importancia para el bienestar del estudiantado y personal administrativo considerando la situación actual del centro educativo (…)”.

Al determinarse que la documentación presentada por la Dirección de Infraestructura Educativa del Ministerio de Educación Pública, fue avalada por el Ministerio de Salud, lo procedente es disponer que el escrito recibido mediante el correo electrónico de la Sala a las 15:28 horas del 17 de enero de 2024, suscrito por la Ministra y de Directora de Infraestructura Educativa, ambas del Ministerio de Educación Pública, así como los escritos presentados por el Director del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba de las 10:22 horas del 23 de enero de 2024, de las 13:47 horas del 9 de febrero de 2024, y de las 11:26 horas del 27 de febrero de 2024, sean agregados a sus antecedentes y se reserve el archivo del expediente hasta que se acredite el total cumplimiento de las medidas recomendadas por el Ministerio de Salud.

Vale la pena hacer notar que la prórroga del plazo de cumplimiento de la orden sanitaria emitida debe ser gestionada por el MEP ante el Ministerio de Salud, y no ante este Tribunal. Nótese que lo ordenado en la sentencia No. 2023-001061 de las 9:20 horas del 20 de enero de 2023, fue lo siguiente: “Se declara con lugar el recurso. Se ordena a Luis Fernando Gómez Cordero, en su condición de Director a.i. del Área Rectora de Salud de Turrialba del Ministerio de Salud, o a quien en su lugar ocupe ese cargo, que ejecute todas las actuaciones dentro del ámbito de sus competencias y coordine lo necesario para que: a) dentro del plazo de UN MES, contado a partir de la notificación de esta sentencia, se realice una nueva inspección y se dispongan los plazos de cumplimiento para cada uno de los aspectos señalados en la orden sanitaria No. 145-2017 y; b) se lleve a cabo el seguimiento del cabal cumplimiento de los mismos. Se ordena a Anna Katharina Müller Castro y a Álvaro Mata Leitón, en sus calidades respectivas de Ministra y Director de Infraestructura Educativa, ambos del Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), o a quienes en sus lugares ocupen esos cargos, que ejecuten todas las actuaciones dentro del ámbito de sus competencias y coordinen lo necesario para que: a) se cumpla la orden sanitaria No. 145-2017, dentro de los plazos y según los requerimientos establecidos por el Ministerio de Salud a partir de la nueva inspección ordenada y; b) mientras se cumple la orden sanitaria en los términos dichos, se adopten todas las medidas pertinentes para garantizar la salud e integridad de la comunidad educativa, y la continuidad del proceso educativo (…)” (el énfasis no pertenece al original).

V.- Deberán las autoridades del Ministerio de Educación Pública y del Ministerio de Salud disponer lo necesario y coordinar lo pertinente para que la seguridad, salud, vida e integridad física de la comunidad educativa se preserve y resguarde durante el tiempo que se tarde en ejecutar las actuaciones pertinentes.

VI.- Documentación aportada al expediente. Se previene a las partes que de haber aportado algún documento en papel, así como objetos o pruebas contenidas en algún dispositivo adicional de carácter electrónico, informático, magnético, óptico, telemático o producido por nuevas tecnologías, estos deberán ser retirados del despacho en un plazo máximo de 30 días hábiles contados a partir de la notificación de esta sentencia. De lo contrario, será destruido todo aquel material que no sea retirado dentro de este plazo, según lo dispuesto en el “Reglamento sobre Expediente Electrónico ante el Poder Judicial”, aprobado por la Corte Plena en sesión No. 27-11 del 22 de agosto de 2011, artículo XXVI y publicado en el Boletín Judicial No. 19 del 26 de enero de 2012, así como en el acuerdo aprobado por el Consejo Superior del Poder Judicial, en la sesión No. 43-12 celebrada el 3 de mayo de 2012, artículo LXXXI.

Por tanto:

No ha lugar a la ampliación del plazo gestionada. Agréguense los escritos presentados a las 15:28 horas del 17 de enero de 2024, a las 10:22 horas del 23 de enero de 2024, a las 13:47 horas del 9 de febrero de 2024, y a las 11:26 horas del 27 de febrero de 2024, a sus antecedentes y se reserva el archivo del expediente hasta que se acredite el total cumplimiento de las medidas recomendadas por el Ministerio de Salud. Tomen nota las autoridades del Ministerio de Educación Pública y del Ministerio de Salud, de lo indicado en el considerando V de esta sentencia. Notifíquese.- Fernando Castillo V.

Fernando Cruz C.

Luis Fdo. Salazar A.

Anamari Garro V.

Ingrid Hess H.

Alejandro Delgado F.

Jorge Isaac Solano A.

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