Is the Minister aware that the school had a prefab which accommodated a science laboratory but which deteriorated to such an extent that it had to be demolished three years ago? Is he further aware that the students have not had a science laboratory since that time?
There have been indications of a dispute between the VEC's consultants and the professionals in the Department of Education and Science. I cannot accept that consultants employed by a VEC would not have their documentation right for a project costing €269,000.
Will the Minister agree that his explanation is a fig leaf to shield from the public the naked truth that the Government does not give two hoots about the students of this school and is reneging on its obligation to treat all the children of the nation equally? Will he further agree that this fig leaf hides the fact that the Government is reneging on a commitment given in 2002?
Will the Minister agree that the situation in this school is reminiscent of trying to teach a child to cycle without a bicycle? One does not need a racing bike, a tricycle will do. The Minister expects the science teacher in this school to teach her subject while not providing her with the tools of her trade – a basic science laboratory.
Will the Minister correct this appalling situation by immediately giving approval for the project to proceed to construction stage in order that the school can be provided with basic science and home economics rooms? The money was allocated and all the documentation is now in order. The Minister should let the project proceed.