Limerick schools to receive almost €3m for minor works and ICT funding

SCHOOLS in Limerick will receive €1.3m in funding to fund minor building works and €1,471,450 towards ICT and digital equipment and infrastructure, announced Ministers Niall Collins and Patrick O’Donovan.

The Minister for Arts, Culture, Communications, Media and Sports and Minister of State at the Department of Justice made the education funding announcements totalling €2,771,450.85.

Mr Collins said almost €1.5m has been announced for Limerick schools to specifically help them to embed information and communication technology into their teaching, learning and assessments.

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"This is especially welcome in a rapidly changing world. As well as this almost €1.5 million, €1.3 million has been announced for minor building works which are vital to supporting our schools. This money will help schools address maintenance needs, which is so important for providing a welcoming learning environment and enabling students to reach their full potential.

"I am delighted to welcome this funding as it will support primary, post-primary and special schools to enhance school settings, teaching and learning to the benefit of both pupils and students," said Mr Collins.

Mr O'Donovan said schools are at the heart of our communities right across Limerick.

"This investment of €1.3M for primary and special education schools for minor works, and €1,471,450 for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment will ensure that Limerick schools, and their students, continue to be supported.” 

Mr O’Donovan said maintaining school buildings across Limerick is so important, both in promoting health and safety, but also in providing a welcoming learning environment for all students. 

“Every school in Limerick is different, with different needs, which is why it’s important that schools can decide how to best use their minor works funding to address their own needs on the ground. 

“ICT funding of €1,471,450 will ensure that special, primary and post-primary schools can instil their students with the skills they need to reach their full potential in our rapidly changing society.

"Technology presents a real opportunity in our schools, and this funding will ensure that schools can embed ICT into their teaching, learning and assessments,” said Mr O’Donovan, a former teacher.

Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee, said: “This funding for Limerick is part of an overall investment of €65 million in schools right across the country. 

“This funding will help schools with maintenance and improvements to keep their buildings safe and welcoming places for students, but will also help to ensure that students are learning the digital skills they need to thrive in today’s world.”