Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Ba mhaith liom an cheist sin a fhreagairt don Teachta fosta. It is very important to point out that while the fire assessments were being carried out from quarter 4 in 2017 through to the end of August this year, concerns and potential concerns were being highlighted about fire safety issues, including fire walls, fire stops, door jams, etc. However, it was not until the physical invasive works were carried out - they were carried out at Ardgillan over two weeks ago - that structural issues were found. When the former Minister, Deputy Richard Bruton, commented that he was satisfied, he was doing so on the understanding the certificates of compliance had been adhered to by the contractor and the designers. He had no way of finding out what was going on inside the cavity walls. We have a very clear example at Ardgillan of an unacceptable level of workmanship. I intend to get to the bottom of that matter and also in the other 42 schools to ensure whatever remedial action is needed will be taken. In terms of taxpayers' money, accountability and culpability, we will pursue every channel to ensure there is accountability in respect of the people who were in the wrong and that they will pay for it.

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