Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not pretend that the planning and building unit in the Department is perfect but when a site chosen with local input is refused planning permission on two occasions it slows down the anticipated progress. When a site unexpectedly becomes available the Department moves to acquire it, as happened in the case of Notre Dame, so that it would be in a position to facilitate schools in a new site.

The Department is seeking to respond flexibly to a very rapidly changing environment. The construction of a school building does not automatically run on schedule every time, as Deputy Martin saw in regard to the Ballinteer Educate Together school. I am happy to consider any suggestions on this issue. The system is tried and tested and delivers high-quality buildings relatively cost-effectively. It is impressive that it is meeting the huge demand caused by the pressure of new pupils on the system. However, I am always open to improvements and will ask for an examination of the processes of the building unit to ascertain whether practical improvements can be made.

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