Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 May 2026
366. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on emergency works funding applications by a school (details supplied); if these have been approved; if not, the alternatives available to the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41338/26]
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 (SWS) which deals with upgrade works to the school.
The school's application (7068) was unsuccessful as the application does not fall under the remit of the Emergency Works Scheme as set out in Circular Letter 0068/2020 as the EWS does not provide for upgrades, refurbishments or futureproofing. However, the option remains open to the school to appeal this decision. Appeals will only be considered if additional relevant information that was not provided as part of the original application is submitted to the Department for further review.
The school's applications (7069) was deemed invalid due to an incomplete application form. Once a completed application is submitted, the EWS team will review the application.
