Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 December 2025
395. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Education and Youth the position regarding the emergency works application of a school (details supplied), to enable the numerous leaks in the school roof be repaired; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [69298/25]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the purpose of the Emergency Works Scheme (EWS) is to provide funding specifically for unforeseen emergencies, or to provide funding to facilitate inclusion and access for pupils with special needs. It does so by ensuring the availability of funding for urgent works to those schools that are in need of resources as a result of an emergency situation.
An emergency is deemed to be a situation which poses an immediate risk to health, life, property or the environment, which is sudden, unforeseen and requires immediate action, and in the case of a school, if not corrected would prevent the school or part thereof from opening.
The EWS is a devolved process and operates on the basis of a minimal scope works to address the emergency situation. The EWS is intended to remedy an emergency situation and usually provides only an interim measure until a permanent solution can be delivered under the Summer Works Scheme (SWS) which deals with upgrade works to the school.
With respects to the school in question, funding was approved for roof works and this project is currently with the school to progress further.
