Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 197: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she will clarify the continuation of the school summer work scheme in order that boards of management can plan ahead for their improvement works in the summer of 2008; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2816/08]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Summer Works Scheme has, since its introduction just a few years ago, transformed the standard of existing school accommodation. With over 3,700 projects now having been funded under the scheme, the Department's intention is to concentrate the investment in school buildings this year on delivering as many large projects as possible.

While there will be a focus on providing extra places in developing areas, the Department will also be delivering improvements in the quality of existing primary and post-primary school accommodation throughout the country. The emphasis, however, will be on new schools, extensions and major refurbishments, rather than on smaller projects.

In the circumstances, there won't be a new Summer Works Scheme as part of the Department's building programme in 2008.

At primary level, schools may use their devolved minor works grants for necessary small scale works while at post primary level capitation grants are intended, in part, for this purpose.