Significant progress has been made on structural remediation works at schools constructed by Western Building Systems across Ireland.

The programme, which will deliver repairs at 40 schools, has seen work move forward on the first phase of the project. This includes some 22 schools.

Permanent engineering solutions have been designed at the schools, with work carried out at 14 facilities. Work will take place at the remaining eight schools later this year.

Planned fire safety remediation works were carried out in these eight schools during the summer. This fire safety remediation programme will progress to the 14 schools which have undergone structural remediation.

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Education Minister Joe McHugh TD said: "Good progress is being made on the programme for remediation works in the schools.

"I want to thank the principals, patrons, boards of management, teachers, parents and pupils in these schools. It is with their support and cooperation while the work is carried out that we can restore their schools to normality.

"I am deeply conscious of the disruption and difficulties that this issue has caused since last autumn. It is a complex problem that has required intensive analysis and tailored solutions following detailed assessment by engineers."

A total of 17 schools are included in the second phase of the remediation programme. These have undergone detailed assessments over recent weeks.

Engineers have advised that some permanent remediation work is required in each of these schools.

(CM/JG)