£2m Spent On NI Schools In October

Over £2m was spent on improving schools across Northern Ireland during October.

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 £2m was earmarked for minor works projects during the month of October."

Minister O'Dowd continued: "Since the beginning of the year investment in this area has amounted to over £33.6m, addressing 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."

Minor works contracts awarded during October include window replacement at Currie Primary School in Belfast, upgrade of the telecommunications system at Devenish College, Enniskillen, security upgrade at St Comgall’s Primary School, Antrim, replacement of the school railings at St Patrick’s Primary School, Holywood and security works at St Mary’s Primary School in Craigavon.

The Minister continued: "In August I announced an additional £10m for schools’ maintenance, bringing the total allocation in this area to £47m for this financial year. Also, since last year I have given approval to proceed with new school projects representing a potential investment of up to £353m."

(IT/MH)