Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

As part of the transfer from the Department of Education and Science to my Department, the necessary capital was secured to ensure that what is required by the under 18 group would be provided. That was not in place before the Government decision in 2006. Clearly detailed planning is required on the best utilisation of our sites and the appropriate facilities that may be required on them. By the end of this year that report will be on the desk of the Minister of State, Deputy Smith, who was delegated responsibility for this area some days ago. At that point final decisions can be taken on the roll-out of these capital investments. The provision of possible accommodation in Thornton Hall is purely a precautionary measure and that accommodation can be used by adults in due course.

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