Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2026
371. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current status of multiple applications (details supplied) under the emergency works scheme, when decisions will be issued in each case as the works are urgently needed by the school and its pupils; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18150/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs 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 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 which deals with upgrade works to the school.
The school in question has submitted applications for funding under the EWS to address fabric defects and roof works.
The application for funding for fabric defect works is currently being reviewed by the technical area within the EWS. Once a technical recommendation has been received back from the technical team, the EWS team will engage further with the school as appropriate.
The application pertaining to roof works was refused on the basis that works being sought did not qualify for funding under the EWS as the project submitted was not sudden or unforeseen.
The application in question is currently being reviewed by the EWS team under the appeals process. Once this review process is complete the EWS team will engage further with the school as appropriate.
In all cases the EWS team are aware of the urgent nature of the works required and will keep the school informed throughout the process.
