Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not have a timeframe for the Senator, but at this stage everyone recognises that it is urgent. The Senator spoke of 15 years, but South Dublin County Council approved the disposal of the site in 2007, which is now seven or eight years ago. Subsequently, issues arose regarding the title and ownership. From the perspective of the Department of Education and Skills, it is not possible to commence a building project in advance of a formal transfer of land. The Department must ensure the Minister owns the land. It cannot build a school on someone else's land. That is the difficulty. I do not know why it has taken seven or eight years and I am not privy to details as to whether it is a new proposal. I understand it is acceptable to all involved, so it should progress. I will certainly provide the Senator with any details we are allowed to release. There is no problem with that. I understand from all involved that this solution should work. I hope it does and will pass on the sense of urgency expressed by the Senator.