Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

My main concern in this whole situation is the extent to which it might affect the customer, that is, the Department of Education and Skills as well as the parents and children who are awaiting completed school projects. I am not so concerned about the public private partnership model. If it has worked before and it can work again. If it provides schools methodically, quickly, effectively and efficiently, then there is no problem.

There is another issue, however. It is the extent to which the sub-contractors are exposed in this situation. I realise discussions have taken place between the Minister and the Department and some of the people concerned. It is necessary now to reassure the sub-contractors in case they suffer a domino effect or find themselves left out in the cold while the debate takes place with the receivers and the grabbing of assets, etc., that usually takes place in such situations.

I call on the Minister to reassure the contractors in respect of what might be in their best interests, with particular reference to schools that are already finished, ready for occupation and that have been the subject matter of conciliation, which is the snagging that takes place in the normal course of events. I hope it is possible to expedite the process in so far as they are concerned with a view to ensuring that resources come their way. They have other projects that they wish to continue. If the whole system is held up for any appreciable amount of time, ultimately, the customer, that is, the Department of Education and Skills, will be affected in its attempt to provide the facilitates for children in schools throughout the country.

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