Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
738. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Education if the minor works grant for both primary and secondary schools will or can be used for the purchase of HEPA air filtration systems for classrooms and common areas and so on; if not, if there are other grants available to primary and secondary schools to purchase HEPA air filtration systems for classrooms and common areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [63452/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe minor Works Grant funding for schools which issued in December enables schools to address both their minor works requirements and also to address small-scale ventilation improvements at school level as a short-term mitigation measure, should they require to do so.
The Departments Guidance is clear that where the recommended measures in the Practical Steps and poor ventilation continues to exist in a particular room/area, air cleaners may be considered as an additional measure in conjunction with other methods of ventilation that are available. This is line with Expert Group guidance which identifies that in areas with poor ventilation that structural interventions and measures to increase natural ventilation should be completed.
There is no one solution that fits all scenarios, each school requires bespoke analysis and an appropriate ventilation solution matched to the specific room size and volume. Given that each school setting is different, individual schools are best placed to decide how best to use this funding to address their particular needs in line with the Department’s Guidance. Specialist advice/assistance of a Chartered Engineer or Registered Architect is an important source of support for schools. This will help ensure that appropriate solutions are being put in place to address ventilation issues is required to deal with a poorly ventilated room. In the case where a school has difficulty engaging a Chartered Engineer or Registered Architect the Department can assist.
HEPA air cleaning devices are not a substitute for good ventilation but can be considered pending the completion of interventions/works where poor ventilation persists. This is in line with the Expert Group recommendations. HEPA air filtration does not negate the need for natural ventilation and opening windows as required. Furthermore Mike Ryan of the World Health Organisation’s Health Emergencies Programme has advised that schools should not to rely solely on HEPA air filters.
The minor works grant funding provides good flexibility to address issues at local school level. Where costs exceed the funding provided through their Minor Works Grant, an Emergency Works Application can be submitted.
