asked the Minister for Finance if he will arrange for the immediate commencement of work on the building of the new boys' school at Passage West, County Cork.
Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork School.
85.
Mr. Kenny
Following examination of the tenders received for the erection of this school the Commissioners of Public Works are in communication with the lowest tenderers on certain matters arising out of their tender. Subject to the receipt of a satisfactory reply, the reverend manager will be asked to lodge the local contribution and a contract will be placed. If everything goes well, I would hope that a contract will be placed in the next three to four weeks.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the exceptional urgency in this case? It has been of exceptional urgency for a long number of years. Is he further aware that this is a case in which the parents had a one day protest exactly 12 months ago and they have plans to protest again in the coming weeks? Would he state if the outstanding matters can be easily resolved and, if not, whether further delays can be expected?
Mr. Kenny
I understand the urgency of the matter very well and I assure the Deputy it will be dealt with with the utmost expedition.
Is it reasonable to assume work on the site will commence within the next two to three months or can the Parliamentary Secretary give any indication of the probable date of commencement?
Mr. Kenny
The reply says that, if everything goes well, it is hoped the contract will be placed in the next three to four weeks. When the contract is placed, it will then be up to the manager to lodge the local contribution. After that the contractor can start work. It would be reasonable to expect that work should be well on the way within the next two to three months.
If funds are in existence, would he state that the funds are in existence and that he will use his good offices to have work commenced with the minimum possible delay?
Mr. Kenny
To the best of my ability, I will ensure that work is expedited in the shortest possible period.
The money collected has been on deposit for ages. It is available.
Mr. Kenny
Tenders have gone out and the fact is that a contractor would not be employed if they could not pay him.