A condition survey of 31 public schools is expected to be finished by the end of next March.

David Burch, the Minister of Public Works, told the House of Assembly the timeline would enable “proper planning and preparation” and would be done with help from the private sector.

Colonel Burch told MPs: “These condition surveys will identify any defects within schools as well as prioritising them for remediation.

“This will also provide a basis for budget and planned preventive maintenance for the next five to ten years.”

The state of public school buildings has caused concern in recent years. TN Tatem Middle School pupils had to relocate due to mould problems and Harrington Sound Primary School children were sent home for several days because of an infestation of bird mites.

And Dellwood Middle School was forced to delay opening after the summer break due to mould. Parents, teachers and pupils helped to clean up several schools so children started the new term on time. The OBA’s Score Report released in December 2015 drew up a detailed evaluation of health and safety deficiencies.

The PLP’s new survey on all public schools will include structural, mechanical, electrical and health and safety inspections to ensure a “complete picture” of the condition of schools in the future.

• To read Colonel Burch’s statement in full, click on the PDF under “Related Media”