All applications to the Department of Education and Science for capital funding are subject to a detailed process of prioritisation. In brief, priority is given to the following broad categories of projects: new schools to cater for substantial increases in enrolments in rapidly developing areas where no other primary school exists; accommodation which is urgently required for children with special needs such as autism or speech and language disorders; the upgrading and refurbishment of special schools; the replacement or refurbishment of very poor buildings, including old prefabs – an example might be a structurally unsound building; and the provision of accommodation which is necessary to facilitate agreed amalgamations. While the primary responsibility for health and safety in school buildings rests with school management authorities, naturally the Department will assist schools in fulfilling these obligations.