Noel Coonan (Tipperary North, Fine Gael)
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Question 519: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be made available for schools in the Tipperary North constituency to complete attic and wall insulation during the summer of 2009; if so, the procedure to be taken to apply for funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26152/09]

Batt 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 100% 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 75% 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.