Ardgillan Community College in Balbriggan has closed 18 classrooms due to ongoing concerns regarding the building’s safety.

A fire and safety assessment carried out by the Department of Education revealed structural problems with a part of the school.

Sinn Féin TD for Fingal Louise O'Reilly has called for alternative accommodation to be immediately provided.

She said: "The situation is extremely debilitating and worrying for students and their families and for teachers. The insecurity and instability which this has caused is enormous.

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"It is absolutely essential that alternative accommodation for the students at Ardgillan Community College is immediately provided."

Ms O'Reilly added: "In the coming months, we must get to the bottom of how this happened and who is responsible. However, the most pressing issue now is that alternative accommodation is provided as a matter of urgency." 

Fianna Fáil Seanad Spokesperson on Justice, Children and Youth Affairs, Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee also called into question the work of the construction company.

She said: "It needs to be examined by the State whether this company were aware of their shortfalls during construction phase and if the company should be prevented from applying for tenders for the construction of future public buildings.

"Temporary accommodation is not a long term solution and necessary remedial works to bring Ardgillan Community College up to scratch must be promptly completed without delay," concluded Senator Clifford-Lee.

(CM/MH)