Vol. 553 No. 6
58 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of secondary schools in respect of which refurbishment or extension of facilities is currently ongoing; if sufficient funding has been provided to ensure the completion of these works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14784/02]
This year funding of more than €183 million is available for second level school buildings. This unprecedented level of investment will be expended on the programme of work set out for the year. I am satisfied the programme in place is consistent with the allocation.
First, the funding will be applied to finish 125 projects where work has been under way. This includes a mix of totally new second level schools, significant extensions, PE halls and other improvement projects.
Second, it will be applied to cover the costs that will arise this year in more than 80 projects that are part of the approved programme and planned to go to site in the remaining months of this year. These start-ups include new schools, extensions and other extensive improvement works. The allocation will also cover more than 160 smaller improvement projects planned to start in the course of the year.
