Cork primary schools to benefit from minor works funding – Collins

Fine Gael Cork North West TD, Áine Collins, has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Education and Skills, Jan O’Sullivan TD, that €28 million will be provided to fund the improvement of physical infrastructure of schools in 2014. The funding will also be used to purchase much needed equipment and furniture in schools in 2014.

“Cork schools are set to benefit from new funding for minor works in primary schools. I welcome the announcement that that €28 million will be provided to fund the improvement of physical infrastructure of schools in 2014. The funding will also be used to purchase much needed equipment and furniture in for the schools.

“The rates payable are €5,500 per school plus €18.50 per mainstream pupil and €74 per special needs pupil. For example, the grant is worth at least €6,425 for a 50 pupil school and more than €11,000 for a 300 pupil school. 

“The Minor Works Grant provides vital funding to improve our primary schools and is very much relied upon by schools to maintain the standards of their buildings and ensure our children are learning in the best possible physical environment.

“The grant is used for works including improvements to school buildings and grounds, improvement or replacement of mechanical and electrical services, the purchase of standard furniture and physical education equipment, and the purchase of IT related equipment. Once the grant is provided, schools can put it to use without having to deal directly with the Department of Education. This is important because schools know best how to put the money to good use in their own buildings.

“The Minor Works Grant will issue to all primary schools with permanent recognition next week.”