217. Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current position regarding the application for funding under the summer works scheme in respect of a science laboratory project at a school (details supplied); the current status of the assessment of the application; if funding will be approved and made available in sufficient time to allow the project to be completed before the commencement of the 2026-2027 academic year, given the urgent need for these works; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54100/26]

The purpose of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme (CASWS) is to enable individual school authorities to undertake small-scale building works on a devolved basis that, ideally, can be carried out during the summer months or at other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school. The CASWS operates on a multi-annual basis across a number of categories of works.

My Department recognises the importance of the proposed Climate Action & Science labs refurbishment projects. Throughout, my department has engaged extensively with the relevant Education and Training Board (ETB) to progress the works and to support the project’s advancement. In doing so, the Department must ensure that all proposals meet the necessary technical, procurement and governance requirements, particularly given the obligation to safeguard public funds.

I am happy to inform the deputy that the final check for compliance has now been completed and the ETB should receive formal approval to proceed shortly.