80. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress that has been made in the appointment of a specialist to carry out an investigation at a primary school (details supplied) which when completed will lead to the completion of works at the school and enable pupils and staff to return to same. [47097/19]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that approval has been granted to appoint a new specialist to enable the contractor to carry out the preparatory work necessary to proceed with the repair works. This includes the final steps in the preparation of a method statement for the Health & Safety Authority (HSA) to allow it to carry out the first phase of these works.

This work must be done while respecting the important job the HSA has to conclude its investigation.