Vol. 547 No. 3
195 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to a recent asbestos survey of a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath which indicated the presence of quantities of damaged asbestos in the school structure and fittings; his plans and timescale for the removal of this hazardous material from the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3646/02]
A survey of the school in question, carried out on 1 June 2001 by consultants commissioned by the Office of Public Works, revealed quantities of asbestos based materials in a number of locations, including roof slates, toilet cisterns and boiler flue pipe and seals. Although there is some damage to the external roof slates, the asbestos is generally in good condition and poses no health risk unless disturbed. Agreement has been reached with the school authorities to have the material removed during the summer holidays in 2002 while the school is closed.
