Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 20 Mar 2002

Vol. 550 No. 4

Written Answers. - Schools Refurbishment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

90 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the total budgetary requirement in respect of the provision of extra facilities, refurbishments, improvements or provision of new facilities in respect of primary and second level schools; the extent to which funds are avail able to carry out such promised works in 2002; if there are anticipated shortfalls; if adequate funds are available to meet the funding requirements of the entire programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8320/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The level of capital funding in 2002 is €153.6 million at primary level and €184 million at post-primary level, a total of €337.6 million which is a record level of funding demonstrating this Government's commitment to improving the accommodation situation in all schools. The Government is determined to address the historical deficit in education infrastructure. However, it is clearly not possible to wipe out in the lifetime of one Government the cumulative deficit of generations and to deal with emerging needs at the same time. The Government is committed to continuing the work it has started and to building on the substantial progress that has already been made in order to ensure that the needs of schools throughout the country are met. Projects for the provision of new and improved accommodation at primary and post-primary schools currently in architectural planning will proceed to the invitation of tenders on a phased basis under the Government's expanded building programme.