Marie Sherlock (Labour) | Oireachtas source

A fortnight ago we all learned about the 58 schools that are having construction projects effectively put on hold. We have never had a full list or a precise set of criteria for why those projects have been put on hold. In recent days we learned some schools are being told they are no longer on the list, while others have got no phone call at all, save the original call to say a particular school construction project is not happening for now. If the truth be told, we are seeing a political game being played out between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, and one designed to hurt each other in terms of what schools are on that list. It is despicable.

I have been dealing for a number of years with Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire on Parnell Square, Dublin 1. It is into its 21st year in temporary accommodation. The school community marked their 20-year anniversary in a decrepit building where the car park is also the school yard. It is only through the incredible efforts of the school community that there is a wonderful school there. Year after year, the Department of Education pays out €328,000 in rent and the school has had so many false dawns and disappointments. The school was told the sod could be turned at Easter time this year. The school was going to be fast-tracked through the stage 3 process because it has been so shamefully let down over so many years and now the project has been put on hold. There is a site on Dominick Street lying vacant since 2008 waiting for that school and it still has not happened. I asking that the Ministers for Education and Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform come to the House to explain what exactly is happening with the 58 schools.Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire, and other schools across the country, cannot wait any longer.