Peter Fitzpatrick
Ceist:58. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4909/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 1 February 2018
Ceisteanna (58)
Freagraí scríofa
In respect of the Schools Bundle 5 PPP programme, which includes the school referred to by the Deputy, a contract exists between my Department and the Principal contractor, Inspiredspaces. Inspiredspaces is the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) responsible for the design, construction, finance, operation and maintenance of the programme.
The company referred to by the Deputy has been a 50% shareholder in the SPV. The other shareholder in the SPV is the Dutch Infrastructure Fund (DIF).
The Principal contractor for the SB5 programme continues to be Inspiredspaces. Sub-contractors on the project are employed by Inspiredspaces in that respect or indirectly by Inspiredspaces through other sub-contractors.
It is a matter for all sub-contractors to agree terms and conditions and a schedule of payments with their direct employer. The enforcement of contractual rights is a matter for individual suppliers. As such the Department has no authority to intervene in these cases.
The Dutch Infrastructure Fund is currently developing a rectification plan to ensure completion of the school buildings in as timely a manner as possible. The outcome of this process will provide greater clarity for all involved in the individual projects.