Primary schools around the county are being urged to apply for the 2016 Summer Works Scheme, the application process for which has already opened.
Local Independent Councillor, Michael O’Brien, is urging schools to submit their applications before the closing date on November 27. €40 million is being made available for the 2016 scheme. The purpose of the scheme is to devolve funding to individual school authorities to undertake small-scale building works which, ideally, can be carried out during the summer months or other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school.
Under the terms of the scheme, school authorities are empowered to manage these works with guidance from and minimal interaction with the department. Funding for small scale projects will be allocated in accordance with the prioritisation criteria, which include the ability to have the works carried out during the summer.
Councillor O’Brien said: “This is a very good scheme which supports those schools that need to get minor works and repairs carried out. There is always a range of small works that need to be addressed every year, and the Summer Works Scheme helps meet those needs. Every school in Westmeath can apply for one small-scale project and will be responsible for the completion of the works. The scheme should cause little disruption to pupils, as the majority of the works are carried out during the summer.”
