What is the position with regard to the capital programme for education, specifically schools? I understand between 15 and 17 capital projects due for commencement in primary and secondary schools have been held up. The projects are either to build new schools or refurbish and rebuild existing schools.

There are two in my constituency and I understand up to 15 others in other constituencies. The Minister for Education and Skills is, correctly, seeking a further capital allocation. However, I am very concerned the capital programme in education is going to fall apart before our eyes unless there is a rapid decision to provide additional funding so our children can be educated, given the new population and the demographics in my constituency. There is also a need for the ancient schools, some more than 100 years old and which have been more than ten years on the list, to be completely rebuilt.

There is a €42 billion capital programme out to 2025, with a review of progress in 2017. The Minister, Deputy Bruton, might like to comment specifically on the capital programme for schools.

To add to what the Taoiseach has said, we have a provision each year for the next six years. Deputy Burton is right that there is pressure on schools and that we have a growing number of pupils at both primary and secondary level. The Department has always practised a policy of having projects ready to go in order that any available money is fully utilised in any year. That is the current situation. There are projects we could release if we were in a position to obtain funding and we have always taken that approach. My predecessor as Minister, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, earlier this year sanctioned 38 schools to proceed to tender. The process is proceeding although, as Deputy Burton said, not every project gets approval as soon as it might like. Nonetheless, we are using the funds very efficiently and effectively.

Will the Minister confirm the number of projects?

The Minister might communicate with the Deputy. That concludes questions on promised legislation. I am conscious we veered into areas not relating to legislation. However, we might look at that again.