This is very simple. The school building, as it is, is simply not fit for continued use. There are serious health and safety concerns. When we visited there was very clearly water still coming through and sitting on top of tiles. You could see water coming in beside an interactive electric panel, which clearly represented a danger. A couple of years ago there was a partial ceiling collapse while children were in a class. There is mould. It is simply not suitable as it is. What is frustrating is this was recognised in May 2014. An architect appointed by the Department of education recommended a complete rebuild for both schools yet we still do not have substantial progress. This has been a real saga, the latest step being in July of last year when full 2a plans were submitted by the school. It still has no formal acknowledgement of that or a timeline for that. We know the Department got it. I asked the officials at the public accounts committee last week and they acknowledged they have it but it is simply not acceptable. The school is looking for a meeting with the Minister and the officials to map out a timeline to ensure these children get a suitable school building as soon as possible.

Sentiment score: -0.07

There is lots in the roof report carried out by Morris Roofing and Cladding. The key point is the roof has gone beyond economic repair due to its nearly 50 years of age. The fundamental problem is the school is over 50 years old and needs a new replacement building. That is not just the opinion of some teachers, students or parents but of the architect originally appointed by the Department 12 years ago. There is an additional issue in that when the new school building opens, there will be 36 extra places in special classes, which obviously for the children in the area, and for the Minister of State given his particular responsibilities, is an extra reason to get this happening as quickly as possible. I re-emphasise the point about a meeting with the Minister and officials.

Sentiment score: 0.00