asked the Minister for Finance whether satisfactory tenders were received in reply to the advertisement for tenders for the erection of a new school to replace the old two-teacher school at Onaght, Kilmurvey, Aran Islands, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Aran Island School.
10.
An acceptable tender was not received. Further inquiries are being made with a view to obtaining a suitable contractor for the work.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary tell us how many tenders were received in reply to this advertisement?
I do not think it would be desirable to give any information with regard to the tenders.
What was the reply to this question in July last?
Would the Deputy like me to read the reply again?
Yes.
An acceptable tender was not received. Further inquiries are being made with a view to obtaining a suitable contractor for the work.
What is the cause of the delay?
I should like to ask the Parliamentary Secretary to bear in mind that this schoolhouse, which it is absolutely essential should be replaced, is in the Aran Islands, 30 miles from Galway city, and the materials for the new school will have to be carried out by boat and the work will therefore be much more expensive than it would be if one were erecting a school on the mainland.
That is not a question.
There has been too long a delay and I should like to ask for special consideration for the people so that the school will be replaced immediately.
I should like to assure the Deputy this school is receiving active consideration. I am aware of the position in regard to it.
What does the Parliamentary Secretary mean by "active consideration"? He gave me the same reply last July. There is nothing active about it.