Schools Health and Safety

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 May 2017

Tuesday, 2 May 2017

Ceisteanna (407)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

407. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Skills to outline the way in which action 1.4 of A Healthy Weight for Ireland will be advanced; the status of the provision of potable water in all learning centres; if a national audit has taken place of learning centres in respect of the availability of potable water; if not, if this will be done as a matter of priority; the consultation his officials have had with the Department of Health in this regard; the cost of providing potable water in all learning centres. [20829/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

Health and Safety issues such as the provision of potable water is a matter for the school authorities in the first instance. However, if a school authority has concerns about the quality of the drinking water on its premises, it should consult with its local authority and/or Irish Water for advice. The school may also arrange for the water to be tested. If any problems are identified through testing the school authority should submit an Emergency Works application for remedial works to address the problems. Potable water is provided in all new primary and post-primary school accommodation.

Officials from my Department are involved in ongoing discussions with the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, Department of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency with a view to the implementation of the National Strategy to reduce exposure to Lead in Drinking Water which involves the development of a national testing strategy and subsequent remediation program for public buildings.