asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that despite his assurance to the Rev. Manager of Lisnamrock national school, Coalbrook, County Tipperary that the erection of the new school would be expedited, less tradesmen are now employed; that at the present rate of progress it will take at least another five years to complete this school; and that the people have refused to allow their children to attend the old national school because of its dilapidated condition; and if, in view of the serious situation which has arisen, he will now take drastic action by cancelling the contract and by having the work carried out so as to ensure that the school will be ready for occupation by September, 1964.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Coalbrook (Tipperary) School.
13.
As indicated in my reply to a question on 26th May, the delay in the erection of this school is in the main due to the difficulties experienced by the contractor in securing a sufficient supply of skilled labour. As a result of an interview which representatives of the Office of Public Works had with the contractor within the past week I am satisfied that he is doing his utmost to recruit the labour force necessary to ensure completion of the school by the end of the summer holidays—I understand that he has even gone to the extent of transporting men to the site from his headquarters in County Meath.
The Deputy can rest assured that the Commissioners of Public Works will continue to take all practicable steps to ensure the earliest possible completion of the contract.