Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am conscious that the physical environments of the classroom and the school play an important role in ensuring good quality teaching and learning can take place in schools. That is why my Department is investing in building new schools and improving existing buildings.

Almost €2 billion in funding is being invested under our five-year capital plan. Almost 320 major school and over 830 small school projects have been approved to replace inadequate infrastructure and provide much needed additional capacity. Since 2012, new classroom accommodation has been delivered for more than 75,000 pupils across the country. Under the minor works grant scheme, over €28 million was approved in December to enable primary schools to undertake repair and improvement works. In addition, over 770 schools have benefited from the funding of over €70 million invested in the 2014 summer works scheme.

WSE is a robust and fair model of inspection. I am satisfied it accurately reflects the work done in schools to deliver the curriculum at primary and secondary levels. When inspectors identify serious shortcomings in school facilities, these matters are raised directly with the school authorities and brought to the attention of the Department's planning and building unit.

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