Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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158. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the steps he has taken to improve ventilation in the office buildings of his Department; if air cleaning and or purification systems have been installed in 2021; and if not, the plans to install same in 2022. [59722/21]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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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. 

With regards to air cleaning and/or purification, I can confirm that no 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 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. In addition, I can assure the Deputy that the prevailing public health advice guides any decisions in relation to on-site attendance at the Department's locations.