Written answers

Tuesday, 16 June 2009

Department of Education and Science

Schools Refurbishment

8:00 pm

Photo of Joe McHughJoe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 273: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be available for schools for complete attic and wall insulation during the summer months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23752/09]

Photo of Batt O'KeeffeBatt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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As I indicated previously I have introduced a new €20 million scheme to improve roof and cavity wall insulation levels in school buildings across the country. The devolved energy efficiency scheme, which is being implemented with the help of Sustainable Energy Ireland, allows schools to apply for funding on a once-off basis to upgrade the fabric insulation in attics and the external cavity walls of their buildings. My Department is providing 100pc grant-aid for these projects which can be carried out over the quiet summer months. The new scheme for schools is an extension to the €80 million Summer Works Scheme I announced on the 7th May last.

The purpose of the scheme is to improve the energy efficiency of our older schools. These measures will make buildings more comfortable, cut energy costs and contribute to the Government's national targets of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The scheme is significant considering that close to 75pc of a school's energy consumption is on heating and hot water, with the remainder on lighting and other small-power appliances. New schools built in recent times are now over twice as energy efficient as best international practice.

To expedite claims and streamline the application process for the scheme, an on-line application form, frequently asked questions and other guidance documents for schools are on www.energyeducation.ie. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that in the region of 400 schools have applied for funding to date. It is expected that approval letters will issue in respect of valid applications in the near future.

Photo of John McGuinnessJohn McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 274: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if an application for a capital grant under the emergency works scheme will be approved in the case of a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will expedite the positive decision. [23765/09]

Photo of Batt O'KeeffeBatt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I am pleased to inform the Deputy that an application from the school in question for heating works has been approved by my Department and the school management has been informed of the decision.

Photo of Olivia MitchellOlivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 275: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the reason an application by a school (details supplied) in Dublin 14 for the summer works scheme was rejected ; if this school will be accommodated for building works under any other available building scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23773/09]

Photo of Batt O'KeeffeBatt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The application for Summer Works Scheme funding from the school to which the Deputy refers was not successful because the works were deemed by my Department not to be absolutely necessary at this point in time. The school may appeal this decision if it wishes. Alternatively, it is open to the school authority to use its annual Minor Works Grant to carry out the works, provided this funding is not needed for more urgent works. It will also be open to the school to apply for funding under the Summer Works Scheme 2010. I will be announcing details of this Scheme later this year.

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