asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the delay in the erection of the new school at Scartaglin, County Kerry.

The site offered for the erection of this school was far from ideal but was the only one available. When the contractors began work it was found that complete new details of foundation depths and steppings, and so on, had to be prepared before the reinforcement for the foundations and rising walls could be designed. This took considerable time but portion of the steel reinforcement has now been delivered and at present the Office of Public Works are in touch with the contractors with a view to early resumption of the work.

Can the Minister give an assurance to the House that the contractor will be urged to start this work without delay? Everyone knows he has other work in hands and that is why he is not starting this job.

I understand he has been urged to recommence the work.

Will the Minister ensure that the penalty clause will be enforced?

The Deputy may take it that if there is a legal remedy available, if the contractor is in breach of his contract that legal remedy will be used.