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Fine Gael Cork South West Deputy, Jim Daly, has welcomed the reintroduction of a number of school improvement schemes which will see schools in Cork receiving funding for minor works and bigger building projects which include roof and window upgrades, electrical works and structural improvements.
He said: "The reintroduction of the Summer Works Scheme will see €40 million being allocated for small scale building or improvement works to school buildings. The scheme will be open to primary and post primary schools in the Free-Education scheme and schools that are in need of repair works are being encouraged to identify projects and apply for funding without delay.
"Among the projects that can be included are structural improvements and gas, electrical and mechanical works. Each school will be responsible for the completion of the works and should prioritise the improvements that most need to be made. Aside from enhancing the school buildings in which our children are being taught, the allocation of this grand is expected to boost economic activity by supporting 2,400 direct and 480 indirect construction jobs.
"Also being restored is the Minor Works Scheme, the last allocation under which was made in 2011. Twenty eight million euro is being made available, as a once off payment to all primary school, under this scheme for small capital or improvement works to be undertaken. Each school will receive a payment of €5,500 per school, and an additional €18.50 per mainstream pupil or €74 per pupil with special needs. This means that grants of more than €11,000 will be received by primary schools with 300 pupils. Special schools with 100 pupils will be in line to benefit to the tune of almost €13,000.
"Despite the challenging financial climate we are in, it is testament to the fact that the Government is determined to invest in education that both of these schemes are being restored. Schools should be mindful of the fact that funds remain in short supply and should identify where the money can have the biggest impact."
(CD/JP)
