Senator Ryan seeks the removal of asbestos roof in local school
Wednesday March 10 2010
THE removal of the asbestos roof in Balbriggan Community College was sought by Labour Senator Brendan Ryan during an adjournment debate in the Upper House.
'It has been identified that the roof of the school and of the separate gym building were constructed with asbestos sheeting,' he said.
'Asbestos fibres can be dangerous if inhaled as dust and are known to contribute to an increased risk of lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma - cancer of the lining of the chest and abdominal cavity. As a result, the school has been included in the asbestos management programme of the Department of Education and Science.
'The Office of Public Works was charged with the task of solving the problem on behalf of the Department. The project to rectify the problem by means of a properly managed roof replacement has been taken to advanced design stage by the OPW.' He said the lack of information was resulting in concern and uncertainty within the school and getting in the way of planning for the future.
'I ask the Minister for Education and Science to immediately release funding for this project and clearly outline the timeframe for the removal of the asbestos,' he said.
'The problem presents a serious health and safety risk to pupils, staff and members of the general public who use the school out of hours.'
Replying on behalf of the Minister for Education and Science, Minister of State John Moloney said the replacement of the roof in Balbriggan community college had been identified as necessary under the Department's asbestos remediation programme.
' The college, which has an enrolment of 584 pupils, consists of two buildings - the original 1950s vocational school building and a more substantial building that was built on the same site in the early 1980s,' he said. ' The Office of Public Works administers the schools asbestos remediation programme on behalf of the Department of Education and Science. The Department is in negotiations with the OPW on this project. The entire cost of the programme of detection, removal and reinstatement is borne by the Department. Lengthy and detailed preparation work by consultants is required to bring major projects, such as the roof replacement works of Balbriggan community college, to tender stage.'
He said the proposed work entails the removal and replacement of the asbestos roof, gutters and down pipes, with associated works including ceiling replacement and rewiring where necessary. The Department had been in recent contact with the OPW in relation to the progression of this major project.
' The minister is as keen as the school community to progress the roof replacement as soon as possible,' he added.
