Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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170. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills when an announcement will be made on the approval of funding for projects under the 2023 summer works scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20493/23]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, the purpose of the Summer Works Scheme is to devolve funding to individual school authorities to undertake small-scale building works which, ideally, can be carried out during the summer months or at other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school.

The Summer Works Scheme plays an important role in the maintenance and upgrade of the condition of our schools. It provides important opportunities for enhancing the facilities in a school such as upgrading science laboratories and enhancing the energy efficiency of schools through upgrade works to roofs, windows, heating systems etc.

I wish to advise that a funding investment of €65 million was provided in primary and post primary schools in 2022, to facilitate the delivery of 499 projects under the Summer Works Scheme.

My Department's Planning and Building Unit is currently assessing its work programme and priorities for 2023 in the context of its available funding. My Department's published NDP allocation for 2023 is €0.86 billion. High construction inflation remains a continuing feature of the construction sector for 2023.

As part of its planning ahead for 2023, my Department’s key priority is to continue a strong delivery to support the operation of the school system with particular regard to planning ahead for the 2023/24 school year and beyond and also with particular regard to supporting special needs provision.

As part of this planning for 2023, my Department's officials are working on the arrangements for the next phase of the current summer works programme, and schools will be notified of the details as soon as practicable.