asked the Minister for Education the present position in regard to the provision of leases governing the operation of voluntary secondary schools; if this matter has been referred to the Chief State Solicitor's Office for attention; if so when this referral was made; and when she expects the leases to be available for signature.
Written Answers. - Voluntary Secondary Schools.
158.
The execution of the leases in respect of grants payable under the scheme for the payment of grants towards the building of recognised secondary schools is an ongoing activity of my Department. Referral of the documents in each case to the Chief State Solicitor is a part of the processing procedure.
Due to the necessity to deploy staff on more urgent work, a backlog of such cases has arisen. A plan of action is being drawn up with the objective of clearing the backlog over the next 12 months.