Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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98. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the steps she has taken to improve ventilation in the office buildings of her Department; if air cleaning and or purification systems have been installed in 2021; and if not, the plans to install same in 2022. [59717/21]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm to the Deputy that the refurbishment of Government offices is the responsibility of Property Management Services in the Office of Public Works, which acts as an agent for all Government Departments.

No air cleaning and/or purification systems have been installed in my Department's office buildings in 2021 and there are no plans to install same in 2022.

I recognise the importance of ensuring adequate levels of ventilation of any indoor spaces either through natural (e.g. opening of windows and external doors) or mechanical means (e.g. central air-conditioning unit) if required.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) monitors, such as those provided to schools, are being utilised in some of my Department offices as a measure to confirm adequate levels of ventilation are being met and ensure a safe working environment.