Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 May 1993

Vol. 430 No. 3

Written Answers. - Prefabricated School Buildings.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

21 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education the total number of primary school places and secondary school places currently being catered for by way of prefabricated buildings; if she will give these figures as a percentage of totals in each category; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

My Department does not keep records in the precise form required by the Deputy's question.

Teachers and pupils need to be provided with a reasonable working and learning environment in good quality accommodation, taking account of issues such as the demands of a modern curriculum, the changing nature of teaching and learning resources and the need to adapt styles of pupil learning.

I accept that there is a perception that prefabricated buildings are not the ideal solution to accommodation needs. This perception more often reflects experience of old and substandard prefabs than of the new modern equivalent. However, prefabricated classrooms have played an essential role over the years in meeting the demand for additional places, often at short notice.

I accept that, despite the investment over the years, much of which was needed to cater for increasing numbers, the condition of some schools could be improved. Much of this accommodation is prefabricated accommodation which has reached or is nearing the end of its useful life. My objective is to replace such accommodation with permanent accommodation where future requirements justify this. The Programme for Government states:

We will allocate an increased amount in each of the next five years to implement a planned programme of replacing or refurbishing substandard school buildings.

and the increases in this year's capital allocation must be seen as an initial step in fulfilling this commitment.

However, there will still be a role for prefabricated buildings to meet urgent additional or short term needs.