Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 July 2026
216. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current status of an application by a school (details supplied) under the emergency works scheme; when decisions will be issued; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54097/26]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the purpose of the Emergency Works Scheme (EWS) is to provide funding specifically for unforeseen emergencies. 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 the minimal scope of works required to remedy an emergency situation.
The school referred to by the Deputy has submitted an application for funding under the Emergency Works Scheme (EWS) in respect of fabric defect works. The application is currently being assessed by the Department’s technical team.
As part of the assessment process, arrangements are being made for a site visit to the school to enable the Department’s technical team to evaluate the scope and extent of the works required. The findings of this assessment will inform the Department’s consideration of the application.
The EWS team is fully aware of the urgency of this matter and is progressing the necessary steps as quickly as possible. The school will be kept informed of developments throughout the process.
