Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Senator has articulated the position clearly and passionately. I understand his frustration and that of the hundreds of children, their parents and guardians on a daily basis, especially as other schools on the campus have been completed. I will convey the Senator's concerns to the Minister and speak to her about it.

I reiterate that to expedite the progression of this major building project, the Department authorised the school and its design team to commence the pre-qualification process. Unfortunately, it is a slow process, which I know having been involved in many building projects. I have no doubt that the Senator's commitment and drive, and I am happy to meet him at any time. As the Minister of State with responsibility for mental health, I am aware that school accommodation has a knock-on effect on children and parents alike.