: I take it the Deputy's question relates to the information contained in the Appropriation Account for 1996 in relation to primary school buildings.
It has been the policy of successive Ministers for Education to approve primary school building projects at the pre-planning stage based on estimated costs, and in the knowledge that estimates would change as planning work was undertaken. This policy was considered prudent given the significant backlog of primary schools needing major capital works, and the costs associated with bringing the projects through the planning stages before seeking ministerial approval. The clear danger with this latter course of action is that too much of the budget would be spent on planning costs at the expense of providing much-needed accommodation.
I have noted the comments of the Comptroller and Auditor General and will be looking at ways of effecting improvements to the system.
The detailed information in relation to individual projects cannot be compiled in the time available for reply and will be sent to the Deputy as quickly as possible.