Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

594. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if there are funding streams in her Department that might provide for a sensory playground for autism classes at a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11071/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Insofar as existing schools are concerned the main funding pathways for external environment projects such as the one referenced by the Deputy are via either the Emergency Works Scheme (EWS) or the Summer Works Scheme (SWS).

Firstly, in respect of the SWS, as the Deputy may be aware, the purpose of the Summer Works Scheme (SWS) is to enable individual school authorities to undertake small-scale building works on a devolved basis and, ideally, can be carried out during the summer months or at other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school. The SWS operates on a multi-annual basis for categories of works such as roof works, window replacement, mechanical, electrical works and external works which could include the upgrade of play areas. I recently announced details in respect of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme 2026 onwards, the details of which can be found at the below link:

www.gov.ie/en/press-release/ae936-minister-mcentee-announces-opening-of-national-consultation-on-post-primary-guidance/

There is also an option for the school in question to submit a new application to the EWS to address the issue outlined in this query.

However, it should be noted that the main purpose of the EWS is solely to address emergencies, including those relating to works to facilitate access and inclusion for children with special educational needs, which are sudden, unforeseen and, if not corrected, would prevent the school or part thereof from opening.