Some 105 schools in Wexford will receive a Minor Works Grant payment over the coming days for small scale works and improvements, but Department of Education is advising all school authorities to use the grant to prioritise fire safety prevention works.
Welcoming the funding, Minister Michael D’Arcy said; “While schools have discretion under the Minor Works Grant Scheme in relation to the nature of small scale works and improvements to be carried out to their school buildings, the Department is advising all school authorities to use the grant in the first instance to prioritise fire safety prevention works.
“The key outcomes from the Department-led programme of fire safety assessments on 55 schools that was initiated last year highlights the need for a strengthened focus on fire safety housekeeping, maintenance and, where necessary, remedial works.
“The Department will be developing guidance for all primary and post-primary schools on the key issues identified from the fire safety assessment programme.”
All primary schools will receive a flat rate Minor Works Grant of €5,500 plus €18.50 per mainstream pupil and €74 per special needs pupil attending a special school or special class.
The grant is worth €6,425 for a 50 pupil school and over €11,000 for a 300 pupil school.