Summer Works Scheme Applications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 December 2014

Tuesday, 2 December 2014

Questions (481)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

481. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the 2014 summer works programme; the total allocation nationally and for Dublin, specifically in relation to primary schools; the number of schools that submitted valid applications on time; the number of same that were grant aided; the reason an application for heating improvements in respect of a school (details supplied) was not approved; if the school and its needs were inspected; if the need was clearly visible and proven; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46269/14]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

I wish to advise the Deputy that over 1,600 applications were received under the 2014 Summer Works Scheme. In total, more than €70 million has been approved to allow over 770 primary and post primary schools nationally undertake improvement works under the Scheme. This funding facilitated consideration of applications submitted under the Scheme in the following categories i.e. Gas, Electrical, Mechanical, Toilet Facilities and Roof Works.

Almost €10 million was approved to primary schools in the Dublin area for works within these Categories. A total of 711 applications were received from primary schools in the above categories, of which 664 applications were deemed valid in accordance with the terms of the scheme and of which in turn, 582 applications were grant aided. I can confirm that the school referred to by the Deputy submitted an application for heating works under the 2014 Summer Works Scheme. The application concerned did not include mandatory project information required in accordance with the scheme and therefore the application was deemed invalid.