Construction BUSINESS

The Minister for Education and Skills Jan O’Sullivan today announced a €36 million investment in 559 schools throughout the country. The investment is the final part of the current Summer Works Scheme and will bring total investment in small and medium scale works in our primary and post-primary schools under the scheme to more than €108 million.

Speaking about the announcement Minister O’Sullivan stated: “This is an important investment that will directly benefit 559 schools. It will see the allocation of over €36 million for vital school works such as window repair and replacement, upgrading of science and specialist rooms and external improvements such as upgrading of school perimeter fences and walls. The majority of works will be carried out over the summer months to minimise disruption to students, teachers and other school staff.”

The Summer Works Scheme prioritised applications into 10 categories. In 2014 more than €72 million was approved for projects such as roof works, improving toilet facilities and gas and electrical works. The €36 million announced today will complete the programme as the remaining categories of works that schools identified are carried out.

According to Minister O’Sullivan: “This is positive news for schools. It will also provide an important capital injection to the construction sector and boost job creation. In 2015, my Department will invest more than €450 million in school infrastructure. It’s an important investment that needs to continue as our economy recovers.”