Schools across Cork city to receive funding for building works

Schools across Cork city and county are set to receive more than €7.2m in Government funding to finance minor building works and information and communications technology (ICT).

The funding is part of a national allocation of €65m announced tis week by education minister Helen McEntee.

The allocation to Cork schools will see an investment of €3.3m to fund minor building works and more than €3.9m towards ICT and digital equipment and infrastructure.

Announcing the Cork allocation, Jerry Buttimer, Fine Gael TD for Cork South Central and minister of state at the Department of Rural and Community Development, said it amounted to a total investment of €7,245,293.

“Schools are at the heart of our communities right across Cork and this investment of €3.3m for primary and special education schools for minor works, and €3.9m for ICT equipment, will ensure that Cork schools, and their students, continue to be supported,” Mr Buttimer said.

“Maintaining school buildings across Cork is so important, both in promoting health and safety, but also in providing a welcoming learning environment for all students.” Mr Buttimer said every school in Cork had different needs, and it was important that schools decide how to best use their minor works funding to address their own needs.

“ICT funding of €3.9m will ensure that special, primary and post-primary schools can instill their students with the skills they need to reach their full potential in our rapidly changing society,” he added.

Technology presents a real opportunity in our schools, and this funding will ensure that schools can embed ICT into their teaching, learning and assessments.” Helen McEntee, minister for education and youth, said the funding would help schools with maintenance and improvements to keep their buildings safe and welcoming places for students, while also ensuring that students learn digital skills.