26/06/2013

Schools To Receive £2.3m Investment

Schools across the north are to benefit from a £2.3m investment in the coming months, under the Minor Works Scheme.

Unveiling the investment, Education Minister John O'Dowd said: "Since January this year, £19.4million has been allocated to minor works contracts with £2.3million being invested in 19 contracts during the month of May.

"This ongoing investment in the schools estate is having a positive impact on pupils, teachers and school staff and provides a much needed boost to the construction industry at what is a challenging time for local firms."

Minor Works Contracts awarded during May include the refurbishment of the kitchen and dining areas at St Mary's Star of the Sea Primary School, new modular classrooms for Ballyclare Secondary School and Knockloughrim Primary School, Magherafelt, and replacement windows at St Killian's College, Carnlough.

Throughout the past year, 40 new school building projects were given approval to proceed representing a potential investment of £353m.

Mr O'Dowd added: "These major projects obviously generate a significant amount of interest and have a positive impact not only on those individual school communities but also on the local economy.

"However, in addition to these more high profile projects, it is important to note that there continues to be investment in the schools estate on an ongoing basis."

(JP/CD)

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