John Halligan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I reiterate that the difficulty was seeking permission from the landlord to install the two prefabs. That was the immediate problem the Department had. We were not in a position to place the planning application until we had received written confirmation from the landlord, which has been received. I spoke to the Department and the Minister this morning and now that it has been received, there will not be a delay. The Minister is aware of the difficulties that Deputies Burton and Jack Chambers have brought to his attention.

On the permanent site for the school, the site acquisition process is now complete and it is a 1.57 acres site in Ashtown. That is sufficient to deal with what is required. The Department told me this morning that it is in regular contact - the Deputies can confirm this with the patron body of the school - that there are agreements to have monthly meetings with the patron. We will give regular updates on what is happening to both Deputies. The Department officials told me this morning that there will not be a delay. Now that everything is in order and the landlord has given consent, this will be done immediately.

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