Almost 20% of schools refused repairs grant
But another 380 schools have been left out in the cold after being turned down for funds for the essential upkeep of classes and buildings.
Education Minister Mary Coughlan announced details of €122 million earmarked for the Summer Works Scheme (SWS) yesterday while visiting her home county of Donegal.
But almost one in five who applied for the works grant were refused.
The department confirmed that out of 1,860 applications by schools, 1,480 had been approved.
The Joint Managerial Body (JMB), representing the boards of management of 392 second-level schools, expressed concern for schools that had spent their own money putting together grant applications, but had them turned down.
“If you are unsuccessful, you are left counting your consultant’s fee,” said JMB general secretary Ferdia Kelly.
The scheme funds projects in school buildings, such as gas, electrical and mechanical works, roof replacements and repairs, window replacement, toilet upgrades, structural improvements and access works.
But the Tánaiste was also keen to stress that the school works programme had the potential to generate work for over 4,400 trades people across the country during the summer period.
“Education is a priority and this record level of investment in improving our schools’ infrastructure will not only improve the learning environment for thousands of students, but it will also stimulate economic activity by generating work for trades people across the country.”
Some 1,113 primary schools and 367 post-primary schools will benefit from the fund. Schools approved are given grants as “priority projects”. School boards of management have also been asked to ensure they get the very best value for money on prices for jobs in the construction market.
