Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy will be aware that spending of more than €70 million was approved for the 2014 summer works scheme to allow over 770 schools to undertake improvement works. This allowed for the funding of applications received under categories 1 to 6, which cover gas works, electrical works, mechanical works, toilet facilities and roof works. Schools which had applied under categories 7 to 10 were advised that their applications would be retained for prioritisation if funding for further summer works projects could be secured for 2015. I also wish to advise the Deputy that provision has been made in the 2015 allocation for the carry-over costs of improvement works already approved in 2014.

The feasibility of making further funding available to facilitate consideration of those applications which were received under categories 7 to 10 under the 2014 summer works scheme is currently being considered. In view of the need to prioritise available funding for the provision of essential school accommodation, it is not possible for me to advance a new summer works programme in 2015, but the files on the applications under categories 7 to 10 were kept open and they are currently being reviewed. I hope that information is helpful to the Deputy.

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