asked the Minister for Education whether he is aware that the national school at Lettir, Glenbeigh, County Kerry, is in urgent need of re-roofing; and, if so, whether he is prepared to provide a grant, at an early date, for the carrying through of this work.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lettir National School (Kerry).
I am advised that the complete re-roofing of this school is not required, but that, in order to put the roof into a satisfactory condition, a number of new slates should be provided and the timber sheeting of the boys' entrance porch should be replaced. These works are in the nature of maintenance, and are, therefore, entirely a local liability.
If and when the necessary works mentioned have been carried out at local expense the Department would be in a position to allow a grant for the mastic pointing of the roof, with a view to preventing deterioration. This latter work being in the nature of an improvement would be eligible to rank for grant.
Mr. Flynn
Arising out of the Minister's reply, is the Minister aware that since that report was received portion of the roof has deteriorated very much? A grant, such as I have suggested, is necessary in the circumstances and, in view of the fact that this is a very poor district, it is very difficult to raise money by local contributions, as the Minister suggests. In view of these circumstances, would the Minister consider giving some portion of the cost?
We are entirely prohibited by regulation from applying any moneys to matters that are matters purely of maintenance. Maintenance is the responsibility of the local school authority.