Concerns have been raised over Minor Works Scheme for schools.

Fianna Fail Education spokesperson Thomas Byrne confirmed the scheme has been placed on a statutory bases under a future Fianna Fáil-led government.

He said: "Before Christmas, Minister Bruton cast doubt on the Government providing a Minor Works Grant Scheme this year. Traditionally, the Department of Education allocates approximately €30 million every year to this scheme.

"This was a bombshell for schools and boards of management. Many had expected to receive some funding this year, and had budgeted accordingly. Only once previously has the Government decided not to pay this grant to schools.

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"This has caused great stress and anxiety for school principals. Voluntary parents association and boards of managements must now increase their fundraising in order to meet this expected shortfall.

"Unfortunately, the Minister can pick and choose if and when to award it, but schools have become dependent on it to balance their books.

"Let me be clear – this should not be treated as a discretionary grant but, rather, money on which schools have come to depend on every year to do necessary minor works and without which they could not function.

"Fianna Fáil will shortly put forward legislation to move the Minor Works Grant Scheme to a statutory basis with clearly defined timelines to ensure that schools are not left in the lurch and at the mercy of the Minister of the day."

(CD/LM)