16/10/2013

£4.1m Schools Investment During September

Over £4.1m was earmarked for minor capital works in schools in Northern Ireland over the month of September, it has been revealed.

Speaking about the investment today, Education Minister John O’Dowd said: "Continued investment in our schools estate is essential if we are to help support our teaching staff to deliver a quality education to all our children and young people.

"Despite pressures on my budget, I have continued to seek to target funds to improving the schools estate and I am pleased to announce that a further £4.1million was earmarked for minor works projects during the month of September."

Minor works contracts awarded during September include resurfacing an outdoor pitch at Christian Brothers in Belfast; additional car parking at Millennium Integrated Primary School, Saintfield; special needs adaptations at St Mary’s High School, Limavady; additional teaching accommodation at Gaelscoil ui Neill, Coalisland; and provision of fire alarm system/emergency lighting at Buick Memorial Primary School, Ballymena.

"Applications for investment under the minor works scheme are reviewed and approved on an ongoing basis," Minister O'Dowd said.

"Since the beginning of the year, my Department has awarded over £31.5million to address issues ranging from minor repairs to more significant refurbishment projects and extensions.

"In addition to the positive impact on pupils, teachers and school staff the ongoing investment also provides a much needed boost to the construction industry, helping to sustain local jobs."

(IT/CD)

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