John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 212: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will confirm the outcome of a health and safety audit carried out by him at a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if he will fund the work required to be carried out arising from this audit; if an application under the essential works programme will be approved; if a grant will be made available for the purchase of tables and chairs for the students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34607/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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An application under my Department's Emergency Works Scheme to upgrade the Fire Alarm and Emergency Lighting Systems has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy following a brief fire safety review carried out by the local authority at the request of the school authority. The purpose of the Emergency Works Scheme is solely for unforeseen emergencies or to provide funding to facilitate inclusion and access for special needs pupils. As the scope of works for this project is outside the terms of the Emergency Works Scheme it cannot be considered for emergency funding. The school have been informed of the decision. My Department has no record of receiving an application from the school in question for replacement tables and chairs however, in light of the competing demands on the available budget, it is not possible to approve funding to replace furniture in schools at this time.