Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 643: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the schools in County Limerick which had applied for funding under the summer works scheme for 2008, prior to an announcement being made on the operation of the scheme for 2008; the sums of money that were applied for by the schools; the works that were intended to be carried out in each of the schools; the responses that have been issued to the schools; the position in relation to the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26837/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, 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 3,000 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. At primary level schools may use their devolved minor works grant to address such works.

In the circumstances, there will not be a new Summer Works Scheme as part of the Department's building programme in 2008. This being the case, details in relation to the type of project and the estimated cost has not been collated by the Department. I would also advise the Deputy that it is my intention to have a Summer Works Scheme in 2009.

The Professional and Technical Reports provided by schools for 2008 can be used again for future projects so that schools will not be at the loss of expenditure on them.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 644: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide funding to a school project (details supplied) in County Clare under the emergency funding scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26853/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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My Department has received an application for funding under the emergency works scheme from the school in question. A decision on the application will be made as soon as possible and the school will be advised of the outcome.