Grants boost for schools

SCHOOLS will have greater freedom to carry out repairs and refurbishment under a grants scheme announced by Education Minister Noel Dempsey.

The scheme aims to allow electrical, mechanical, health and safety and other essential works to be carried out during summer holidays when the least disruption will be caused to classes.

Primary and second-level schools can apply for funding under the new Summer Works Scheme (SWS) up to the end of January, and successful applicants will be notified in February.