Minor capital works are set to commence at 39 Co Clare primary and post-primary schools over the coming weeks.

The 2009 Summer Works Scheme, which returns this year after a 12-month deferral period, covers school projects such as electrical and mechanical works, roof replacements and repairs, window replacement, toilet upgrades, structural improvements and access works.

Works had been deferred for a year to allow the Education Department's Planning and Building Unit to focus on larger-scale building projects.

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Commenting on the fund, Clare TD Tony Killeen said: "The Summer Works Scheme returns this year benefiting 29 primary schools and 10 post-primary schools across Co Clare. The investment will also create much-needed jobs in the local construction sector during July and August."

Mr Killeen said the government remained committed to delivering improvements in the quality of existing primary and post-primary school accommodation throughout Clare.

He said: "The capacity of schools to take responsibility for delivering small and medium-scale projects is a key component of the Summer Works Scheme and I am delighted that so many schools have benefited this year.

"Nationally the government will invest €610m on the school building programme this year, the highest spend on school buildings in the history of the state."

(PR/JM)