Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First, I wish to offer congratulations to the Minister on his appointment. I am pleased for him personally and I wish him every success.

The Topical Issue matter that I wish to raise affects a school in my constituency and also affects other schools. The Minister will be aware that phase 1 of the development of Ardgillan community college, which was started in 2009, has closed elements of the school. I would like to know how promptly the fourth year students will be re-homed. They have been asked to stay at home, which is not acceptable, but I appreciate the unknown element in this story. How long will the works take and what assurances can the Minister give to parents across the Balbriggan and Ardgillan community that the project will be completed as soon as possible? What assurance can the Minister give that the State will not be left holding the can for this?

It is unacceptable that this situation has arisen and that we find ourselves in a position where we may have to close not just Tyrrelstown Educate Together, as was announced earlier, but other schools throughout the country as the result of shoddy workmanship.

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