Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
512. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if a school (details supplied) will be awarded the additional funding required to complete a project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5948/26]
View answerAs the Deputy maybe 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 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 regards additional funding to complete the toilet facilities, this funding was rejected as the works being sought did not fall under the EWS. The school in question therefore appealed this decision. This is currently being assed under the EWS appeals process.
Once this review process is complete the EWS team will engage further with the school as appropriate.
The EWS team is aware of the urgent nature of the works required and will keep the school informed throughout the process.
