Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2018
309. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will accommodate two schools (details supplied) that cannot use their building due to building defects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45102/18]
View answer310. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the way in which the costs of remedial works for building work at two schools (details supplied) will be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45103/18]
View answer311. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Skills the expected timeframe for the completion of remedial works for two schools (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45104/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 309 to 311, inclusive, together.
Precautionary internal and external measures were completed on Sunday, 4 November at the two schools in question.
Arising from a meeting between Department officials and the schools authorities, further work is currently being undertaken to minimise the impact of the precautionary measures on the smooth running of the school and to address other operational and logistical issues, such as traffic management.
The Department is working closely with the school authorities to facilitate the reopening of both schools later in the week. This will initially be at ground floor level only. Off-site interim accommodation has been arranged for the classes which will temporarily be displaced.
Further detailed structural investigations will be required to determine the nature and scale of the permanent remediation works required at the schools, as well as the timeframe for implementation.
The overriding priority of the Department has been, and continues to be, the safety of school students and staff.
