Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am glad that I submitted a written parliamentary question because the Minister's answer has changed since then. He is now saying the review will start at the end of the month. That is what we are here for. It is not acceptable that the Minister thought the issue would go away and that he continues to build schools under that programme. The issues identified in the schools are extremely serious. The ongoing delays in rectifying this issue are causing significant stress. Deputy Burton outlined what is happening in west Dublin and, in my own constituency, parents are telling me about the position in the schools. It causes distress because of the look of the schools, as well as the practical issues that are being felt.

I accept this was one of the first issues the Minister had to deal with but a commitment was given on an independent review. It is absolutely necessary in the context of the hundreds of millions that are spent on school buildings. I will certainly be following up to ensure this review is started at the end of this month as promised here today.

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