Vol. 477 No. 6
86 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Education if she will increase the number of primary schools in the 1997 Capital Programme in view of the fact that only 24 schools have been announced so far in 1997 for the programme and in view of the fact that there is an extensive number of schools requiring urgent refurbishment, upgrading or new schools; and if she will make a statement in relation to the Capital Works Programme for primary schools. [10092/97]
In January last, I approved 26 primary school projects for tender and contract. At the time, I indicated that I would review the capital programme later in the year. I have now completed this review and have authorised my Department to proceed with the tender and contract process for a number of other projects.
There were substantial cuts in the capital funding of primary schools in the 1988-92 period and there is a backlog of deserving projects. The Government has provided additional resources for primary school buildings over the last four years and significant progress is being made in reducing the backlog. However, there is a need to keep a tight control on public expenditure and it is not possible to allow all deserving projects to proceed simultaneously.
