Mr. Hubert Loftus:

On the traffic management issue, a zebra crossing and so on, issues like that can arise in two contexts. The first is where we are doing a school building project. We obviously have to link in with the local authority and, as part of that, planning conditions can be imposed, some of which may relate to traffic management issues. More generally, zebra crossings and traffic management really fall within the remit of the local authority. With regard to schools, we look at what is needed and what are the issues to be managed within the curtilage of the school site. However, anything out on the road is really within the remit of the local authority. However, the remits can intersect where we are doing a building project and, as part of that project, planning conditions are imposed.

With regard to mica, it is not a significant issue in the school sector. In Donegal, there are concerns about the presence of mica in a small number of schools, perhaps ten or so. These are not in a particularly difficult state. There are various elements. We support those schools and will provide funding to them through our emergency works programme and manage those issues. As part of that, we offer facilities to have school buildings fully tested for mica by an engineer with a view to seeing what the appropriate remediation solution is.

On prefabs and things like that, as I mentioned earlier, the direction of travel for Government generally and for the school sector is towards modern methods of construction. That reflects the realities of life as regards skills in the construction industry. Blocklayers, plasterers, labourers and so on are not as plentiful as they were heretofore. From our perspective, and as I said earlier, I want to maximise all opportunities to add capacity to the school sector where warranted and needed. I see modern methods of construction, including modular accommodation, playing an important role in that regard. As I said earlier, we have got strong and positive feedback from the schools that have had such accommodation provided. It provides a decarbonised accommodation solution for schools. That is important as we look towards the climate targets we have to meet for 2030 and 2050.

As for the transport issue that was raised, I might ask my colleague, Ms Mannion, to respond.