asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the urgent need to make extensions to and to provide facilities at Ballina vocational school, County Mayo; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy the situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mayo School.
29.
My Department have completed examination of the lay-out drawings of the special subject rooms for a six classroom extension to this school. It will shortly authorise the vocational education committee to proceed with the preparation of contract documents subject to their incorporating therein the recommendations in regard to special subject rooms.
Is the Minister aware that the vocational education committee, and particularly the members of the Fianna Fáil Party on the committee, Councillor Calleary for one, have been very critical of the Minister and his Department because of the delays which have occurred? Is the Minister further aware that there are scores of children on a waiting list, trying to gain admission there, and some of the children already attending have to travel very long distances?
I accept there is a problem and I am endeavouring to solve it as quickly as possible. I have pointed out that the vocational education committee will shortly be authorised to proceed with the preparation of contract documents.