asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been drawn to the situation whereby the majority of students in the vocational school at Thomastown, County Kilkenny, are accommodated in condemned prefabricated buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Thomastown (Kilkenny) Vocational School.
26.
I have approved the preparation of the bill of quantities and contract documents for the provision of new accommodation at the vocational school, Thomastown, County Kilkenny. This approval was conveyed to the vocational education committee on 23 April 1980.
In view of the grave necessity for a school in this area, when does the Minister think building will commence?
It would be very hazardous for me to mention a date. The Deputy was a member of the deputation I met. The matter is in train and approval was conveyed to the committee on 23 April 1980. It would be very naive of me to mention the date.
The Minister is aware that the majority of the pupils are in condemned prefab schoolrooms——
That is why it was sanctioned urgently.
——and as a result there is difficulty in retaining staff. In view of this, would it not be possible to hazard a guess when this building might commence?
I do not think it would be possible.
Will it take 12 months, two years or three years?
There are too many variables. If cement was not available it would not start——
Cement would not be available now but——
Money?
There is a lot of money.
It must be possible to give some idea of when this work will commence.
There will be no undue delay.