Vol. 487 No. 2
48 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the list of 43 primary schools prepared by the INTO which they describe as seriously substandard; the plans, if any, he has for the upgrading of these schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3491/98]
I am aware of the recent report published by the INTO regarding substandard schools. In this context, I point to the very significant increase on funding for primary capital projects contained in the 1998 Estimates. Substantial progress will be made this year and the Government has signalled its clear commitment to tackle the problem of substandard schools. In that context I point to a 40 per cent increase in primary capital funding over the 1997 allocation.
Given the need to keep a tight control on the public finances, it is not possible to fund all deserving projects simultaneously. Consequently, I have had discussions with the INTO, and others, concerning the development of a points-based project priorisation system. I expect to make progress on this matter very shortly.
