Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Apr 2002

Vol. 552 No. 1

Written Answers. - Schools Refurbishment.

Paul McGrath

Question:

625 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the inadequate facilities that exist in a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath; his proposals to upgrade facilities at this school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11046/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The allocation for primary buildings in 2002 is €153.6 million, which is a record level of funding and demonstrates the Government's commitment to improving accommodation in primary schools. This is almost four times the previous Government's investment in 1997.

Due to the greatly increased level of activity in the primary buildings area since this Government came into office, there has been a substantial increase in the number of major and minor building projects in construction. This has given rise to a record level of building and refurbishment activity.

This year, my Department expects to be in a position to give detailed consideration to an application from the authorities of the school referred to by the Deputy for grant-aid towards improved accommodation.