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Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2016

Tuesday, 29 November 2016

Questions (245)

Martin Heydon

Question:

245. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the annual process for approval of the minor works grant for primary schools to a system with an earlier approval date which would allow more certainty for schools as they budget and make plans for their upcoming year, in view of the fact the current system leaves uncertainty for schools trying to manage with limited resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37756/16]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

The terms and conditions for the payment of the Minor Works Grant to primary schools are set out in Circular Letter 0062/2013. The funds that are transferred under the grant to schools must be spent on the physical infrastructure of the school or on items of furniture and equipment for educational use, including IT related equipment.

The Circular states that the grant will only be paid in future years as funding permits. In that context it is vital that schools take this stipulation into account before commencing any infrastructure related works.

The Deputy will be aware that I announced the Minor Works Grant 2016/2017 on the 17 November 2016 and that schools will receive the grant this week. The total cost of the grant is over €28.5m.