asked the Minister for Education the number of prefabricated buildings used as classrooms in schools in County Galway from (i) July, 1973, to June, 1974, and (ii) July, 1974, to June, 1975; and if he will make a statement on future policy with regard to these types of buildings.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway Prefabricated School Buildings.
15.
Mr. Kitt
Mr. R. Burke
The number of prefabricated classrooms in use in the county and city of Galway in 1973-74 was 183 and in 1974-75 was 201.
It is my policy to phase out as far as possible the supply of prefabricated classrooms and, having regard to the availability of capital, to provide permanent buildings where the need for additional accommodation is established.
Mr. Kitt
Would the Minister say what is the life expectancy of these prefabricated buildings?
Mr. R. Burke
I do not have information of that nature. If the Deputy puts down a specific question I shall give it to him.
Mr. Kitt
Is the Minister aware that there is considerable delay in replacing these buildings when they are in bad condition and in providing permanent structures?
Mr. R. Burke
I am aware there may be delays in some cases. If the Deputy has a particular case in mind and brings it to my attention, I shall look at it.
Mr. Kitt
I shall do that.
As the Minister has stated it is his policy to phase them out, and there were 183 in 1973-74 and 201 in 1974-75, I fail to see how successful this phasing out policy is.
Mr. R. Burke
It takes a little time to wind down policies that have been continuing for some time.
Balderdash.