Westmeath’s 74 primary schools are to receive grant funding this week to carry out small-scale structural and mechanical works.
Each of the county’s primary schools is to receive a boost of €5,500 per school, plus an additional €18.50 per mainstream pupil and €74 per special needs pupil. So, for example, a 50-pupil school will get €6,425 and a 300-pupil school will receive over €11,000.
Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe, announced the funding this week, which will see total grant payments of €28 million made available to more than 3,200 primary schools across the country in the coming days.
“The annual grant for all primary schools with full recognition will allow them to carry out minor works on school buildings without needing to deal directly with the Department. The €28 million investment will be lodged to schools’ bank accounts over the coming days,” said Minister O’Keeffe.
“The funds must be spent on the physical infrastructure of the school or on items of furniture and equipment for educational use including information technology-related equipment.
“The investment is another indication of the Government’s commitment to modernising our stock of school accommodation in a way that enhances the learning and working environment for pupils and teachers,” added the Minister.
Works covered include improvements to school buildings and grounds, improvements to or replacement of mechanical and electrical services, the purchase of standard furniture, physical education equipment, floor coverings, window blinds and information technology-related equipment.
Minister O’Keeffe urged schools to spend the money wisely and to make sure they get the best possible value for money.
