James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On page 86 of the programme for Government, there is a commitment to investment in education as a prime way to grow our society and economy in tandem. In recent years, PPPs have been used to build schools, including, by way of example, the new Loreto school in Wexford town. The latter was built by Carillion, which is now in liquidation. Loreto was to move into this brand new, state-of-the-art school this week but, distressingly for everybody involved, it cannot now be occupied, indefinitely, despite the Minister's assurances to the contrary last week. It is clear there is a lack of confidence as to what will happen. Will the Taoiseach now agree that the use, efficiency and value for money of PPP agreements for investment in education buildings must be urgently reviewed? What assurances can he give to the parents, children and staff regarding this issue?

See this speech in context