Mr. Paul O'Neill:

We have certainly encouraged Woodvale Construction to engage with the existing supply chain because we agree with the Deputy. We are on the same page in this respect. We recognise the importance of engaging with the existing supply chain to commission the works and get the schools opened. We understand that Woodvale is actively engaging, as the Deputy pointed out. The issue is that we need to also consider the commercial side. Clearly, a number of those contractors potentially have claims against the previous contractors with which they engaged. Unfortunately, that also has to be considered. From Woodvale's perspective, it makes sense - commercially and otherwise - to engage with the existing suppliers in the interests of getting the schools open as quickly as possible. Our understanding is that it will do that but it is important to recognise that those suppliers will potentially have outstanding claims against the original contractor.