07 May, 2009 - €80m scheme to get summer building works under way in 967 schools - Minister O'Keeffe

Over 1,180 small and medium-scale building works will get under way in 967 primary and post-primary schools across the country this summer as part of an €80 million Government scheme announced today by the Minister for Education and Science, Batt O'Keeffe TD.

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

Announcing the fund, Minister O'Keeffe said: 'I'm delighted to announce that the Summer Works Scheme returns this year benefiting 650 primary schools and 317 post-primary schools across the country.

'The €80 million fund will finance over 1,180 small to medium-scale capital projects in these schools over the quiet summer months so that disruption is minimised.

'The fund will dramatically improve structural, mechanical, electrical, gas and other works in schools right across the country.

'The investment in our schools will also create much-needed jobs in the construction sector.

‘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’m pleased to be in a position to make funding available once again.

'I'd ask schools to ensure that they get best value for money on prices for jobs in the more competitive construction market,' said Minister O'Keeffe.

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

The Planning and Building Unit will shortly contact all schools approved for grant aid under this year's Summer Works Scheme with further details and instructions on how to proceed.

Minister O'Keeffe said he'll announce over the coming days details of a new energy efficiency scheme to improve roof and cavity wall insulation levels in schools.  

Schools can log onto www.energyeducation.ie for further information.

Since 2004, over 3,000 summer works projects have been carried out in primary and post-primary schools at a cost of almost €300 million.

This year, Minister O'Keeffe will invest €610 million on the school building programme - the highest spend on school buildings in the history of the State.

Later this year, Minister O'Keeffe will invite applications for the 2010 Summer Works Scheme.

Note: Please find attached the list of schools getting grants under the Summer Works Scheme this year.

http://www.education.ie/servlet/blobservlet/PR09-05-07.xls