€2.2m for local school improvement works

€1.23 million for schools in Cavan, and €1.01 million will benefit schools in Monaghan

Just over €2.2 million has been allocated to support ventilation measures and carry out minor works in schools in Cavan and Monaghan.

The funding, part of a €62 million nationwide investment, is designed to carry out minor works with schools to mitigate against the risks posed by Covid-19.

The works that can be undertaken under the primary minor works scheme include maintenance and small-scale improvements to school buildings and grounds, improvement or replacement of mechanical and electrical services, the purchase of standard furniture and physical education equipment, the purchase of floor coverings and window blinds and the purchase of IT related equipment etc.

But schools are being encouraged to use the funding to improve ventilation, with €1.23 million being provided to schools in Cavan, and €1.01 million will benefit schools in Monaghan.

Minister for Social Protection and local TD Heather Humphreys has welcomed the provision announced by Minister for Education, Norma Foley.

“This is really good news for our students and staff as we continue to deal with the Covid-19 Pandemic. Protecting everyone in the school community against Covid-19 is so important.

“I know that the Department will now work closely with schools to ensure this investment can make our schools even safer places in the weeks and months to come.”

Brendan Smith TD (FF) also welcomed the announcement.

“I welcome the allocation by my colleague Norma Foley TD Minister for Education of €1.23million for primary and second level schools in Cavan and €1.01 million for Monaghan schools under the minor works grant scheme.

This is a welcome development and will support ventilation improvements,maintenance and small scale improvements to school buildings and grounds. This is part of additional support for schools in the context of covid -19 and each school decides on the work to be undertaken,” he said.