Richard Boyd Barrett
Question:115. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Education and Youth whether she will intervene urgently to repair a roof at a local school hall (details supplied). [55292/26]
View answerThursday, 16 July 2026
Questions (115)
Written answers
As 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.
The Department currently has no Emergency Works Scheme application from the school in question in respect of roof works. If the school considers that the condition of the roof meets the criteria of an emergency as outlined above, it should submit an application under the Emergency Works Scheme for consideration.
Applications must be made by completing the online Emergency Works Application Form, which is available through the Esinet system.