Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 26 Nov 2002

Vol. 558 No. 1

Written Answers. - Schools Building Projects.

Seán Crowe

Question:

274 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department has plans to sell off the second level school site in Kingswood, Tallaght, Dublin 24, which is being consistently used by anti-social elements, to the dismay of local residents; and if funds from a future sale will be used to upgrade St. Killan's junior and senior schools which are waiting building works to be carried out. [23423/02]

Seán Crowe

Question:

275 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the latest partial collapse of the asbestos roof of St. Killian's school, Kingswood, Tallaght, Dublin 24, and the possible health implications for staff and pupils; and if he will prioritise this school in his works programme. [23424/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 274 and 275 together.

Architectural planning for a building project and refurbishment works at St. Killian's national school is at an advanced stage. The asbestos roof has been noted in the asbestos register of the health and safety unit, Office of Public Works and will be monitored on a regular basis. The school was last monitored on 25 November 2002 and all air test results were found to be clear.

Decisions on projects proceeding to tender and construction in 2003 will be taken in the light of the relative priority of each individual project. I will be announcing my expenditure proposals for school buildings in the new year. The question of the future use of the site referred to by the Deputy is a separate issue and will be dealt with as such.