Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 February 2026
161. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current status of a school’s (details supplied) application under the additional accommodation scheme and emergency works schemes; when a decision will issue on whether it can proceed to the next stage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11061/26]
View answerPhase 1 of the reconfiguration works for the school referred to by the Deputy was completed in May 2025 and this resulted in new accommodation for the school including a new Technology/Graphics room, modern toilet block, disabled access toilet, a deputy principal's office and improved access to the permanent building of the school.
My department has had a number of discussions previously with the school authorities in relation to the proposed phase 2 element of the project and is exploring a number of options and the need for further discussions with the local county council. The department will be in further contact with the school authorities directly on this matter as soon as possible.
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 to the school in question, the EWS team is currently working with the technical area to assess and advise on an appropriate scope of works to deal with the issues applied for by the school. The EWS team is aware of the urgent nature of the works and will continue to engage with the school in this regard.
