Vol. 540 No. 1
244 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the primary schools and second level schools in County Westmeath which have been identified as having asbestos products in their infrastructure; if each of these schools have been properly examined and the asbestos risks assessed; if works are in hand or approved for each school where a risk has been identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20224/01]
Detailed surveys and assessments undertaken to date by specialists commissioned by the Office of Public Works have revealed the presence of asbestos in some type or form in the following schools in County Westmeath: Scoil Naomh Bhríde, Emper, Ballymacargy; The Downs national school, Mullingar; Ballinahown national school, Athlone; St. Earnan's NS, Delvin; Scoil an Clochair, Kilbeggan; Ballingore NS, Mullingar; St. Patrick's NS, Killucan; Dalystown NS, Mullingar; Loch an Ghair, NS, Mullingar; Boher NS, Streamstown; and Coole NS, Mullingar.
Works to remove asbestos have been completed at Emper and The Downs and arrangements for the other schools are in hand. While there is no danger to occupants from undamaged asbestos, its removal will be carried out over the coming months either independently or in conjunction with other refurbishment works at the schools in question.
The remaining schools in the county, including second level schools, will be surveyed as soon as possible as part of the national asbestos management programme.
