Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I fully understand the frustration the Deputy feels on this matter but it is important to acknowledge – this is not from a script - that there are more than 1,500 projects being dealt with by the Department. While the interim works on the Scoil Phádraig building will serve as a first phase for the Holy Trinity National School project, the progression of the project for the remainder of the works will be managed in tandem with the Sacred Heart School project, to facilitate the commencement of the works upon the vacation of the building by the Sacred Heart School. Every effort is being made by the Department to fast-track the project. The Department set out that clearly in the reply.

The other issue that needs to be taken into account is the safe operation of the schools. The safe operation of schools - in this instance the Sacred Heart School - is of paramount importance to the Department. Nevertheless, the Minister wants to reiterate the Department’s commitment to the Holy Trinity National School project and getting it delivered as quickly as possible. The Minister thanks the Deputy for raising the issue. Every effort is being made to prioritise this project, but in the meantime the reason for the proposed approach is safety.

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