Robert Dowds (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I support Deputy McDonald on this matter because I have the same concerns with regard to it. I am aware that certain difficulties arise in that when a contract is awarded for the building of a school building, it is the school, rather than the State - even though Exchequer funding is used - which employs the builder. I am also seeking guidance on this matter but I would certainly like the committee to examine it. I am of the view that it would be extremely difficult to invite representatives from individual primary schools at which construction work is being carried out because the members of boards of management of such schools are largely volunteers. If I understand the position correctly, even though they would not be obliged to submit to our request, perhaps we might ask representatives from certain education and training boards to come before us. These boards would be the lead organisations in respect of some of the construction work and they might be in a position to throw some light on the issue. Like Deputy McDonald, I have heard a number of serious allegations on this matter and I would welcome it if the committee could investigate the position not only in the context of obtaining justice for the workers involved, but also because State money is being used. I would like to be able to rest assured that it is being used in the correct fashion.