Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
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Question 242: To ask the Minister for Finance the progress to date on surveying all primary and post-primary school buildings in order to identify the presence of asbestos; the timescale for total eradication of asbestos from school buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39207/06]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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In the seven years since the commencement of the Asbestos Management Programme in schools, approximately 3,700 schools have been surveyed and works identified as necessary have either been completed, are in hand or are programmed over the coming months.

The remaining 460 or so schools will be surveyed by Spring 2007 and arrangements for removal where necessary and in other cases the management of any materials identified will be put in hand. Remediation works are carried out on a priority basis, as soon as possible following the surveys.

The timescale for total eradication of asbestos from schools will depend on the type, location and condition of materials identified. Regard must always be given to the special nature of the school environment in deciding whether to remove asbestos containing materials or manage them safely in situ.

Removal of asbestos containing material is not always an appropriate solution. In these circumstances it is difficult to forecast a precise completion time for the programme.