12/08/2013

NI Schools Benefit From £1.1m

Northern Ireland's schools are benefiting from an investment of over £1.1m under the Minor Works Scheme.

The funding will provide financial support for schools to carry out minor contracts and refurbishments.

Education Minister John O’Dowd said: "Since January this year, almost £25million has been allocated to minor works contracts with over £1.1million being invested in 41 contracts during the month of July.

"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 July include a new car park at Chapel Road Primary School in L'Derry, resurfacing work at Loreto Grammar School in Omagh and new and refurbished toilet facilities at Anahorish Primary School in Antrim and Edendork Primary School, Dungannon.

Since last summer 40 new school building projects have been approved, amounting to a potential investment of £353m.

Minister O'Dowd continued: "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."

(IT/CD)

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