Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2015
540. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will ensure that an application by a school (details supplied) in County Dublin under the summer works programme is approved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40564/15]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that I recently confirmed the provision of €80 million over 2016 and 2017 for a multi-annual Summer Works Scheme for schools. This funding was initially promised as part of the Budget 2016 investment in schools. The funding will allow schools to carry out small and medium scale building works such as gas, electrical and mechanical works, roof and window upgrades, structural improvements; works that will improve and upgrade existing school buildings.
It is open to schools to prioritise the works they wish to undertake within the terms of the Scheme. Schools can now submit an application to my Department using the online Esinet portal facility. The closing date for receipt of applications is the 27th November 2015.
I wish to advise the Deputy that commensurate with the level of funding available for the Summer Works Scheme, applications will be assessed on a top down basis in accordance with the prioritisation criteria outlined in the governing Circular Letter for the Scheme. This Circular Letter (0055/2015) is available on my Department's website www.education.ie. It is my intention to publish a list of successful applicants in early 2016.
