Schools Property

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 June 2017

Tuesday, 27 June 2017

Ceisteanna (196)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Ceist:

196. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to question the Christian Brothers in respect of a college (details supplied) regarding the requirement and justification for a sale of lands reported to be valued at €18 million in view of the fact that the Christian Brothers' debt to the redress scheme is just below €9 million; if he has inquired as to the way in which the balance of the money will be used in the event of the sale going ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29544/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

The Department became aware of the decision by the Congregation of Christian Brothers to sell lands owned by the Congregation.

In its correspondence in early May last, the Congregation advised that it was its intention to use part of the proceeds of the land disposal to meet its outstanding redress contribution relating to the voluntary offer it made in 2009 in response to the findings of the Ryan Report.

The Department has advised the Board of Management of the College which uses the land that it is not privy to the deliberations within the Congregation on why these particular lands were selected for disposal.

It is a matter for the Congregation as to how their commitment to the Redress Fund is met.

The Department has written to the Congregation seeking clarification on a number of points including whether the land in question is now subject of a legally binding agreement with a builder. The Congregation have replied indicating that they will respond in the coming weeks.

Questions Nos. 197 to 199, inclusive, answered with Question No. 195.