£48m Invested In NI Schools

Over £48m was invested in the schools estate under the minor works scheme in 2013.

Throughout the year, the funding was allocated to minor works contracts across Northern Ireland, with £6m being invested in 62 contracts in December alone.

"This ongoing investment in the schools estate is having a positive impact on pupils, teachers and school staff in addition to providing a much needed boost to the construction industry, helping to sustain local jobs," 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."

Minor works contracts awarded during December include the provision of a specialist pre-fabricated classroom at Loanends Primary School, Crumlin; refurbishment of the toilets at St Malachy’s Primary School, Armagh; disabled access and health and safety work at St Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel; refurbishment of the staff room at Cliftonville Integrated Primary School, Belfast; and provision of a special education needs room at Newtownards Nursery School.

Last August the Minister announced an additional £10m for school maintenance, bringing the total allocation in that area to £47m for the financial year.

In conclusion, the Minister said: "I am confident that the ongoing substantial investment in the minor works programme will help in the drive to improve educational standards. The completion of all of these works will ultimately provide better facilities for our children and young people to learn in and an improved working environment for teachers and other school staff."

(IT/CD)