Welcome for new school build announcement – Chris Hazzard

January 22, 2013

Sinn Féin MLA Chris Hazzard has welcomed the announcement by Education Minister John O’Dowd that 22 new school building projects are to be advanced as part of a potential £220million investment.

The Sinn Féin education spokesperson and South Down MLA said:

“The Minister confirmed today that 22 new school build projects are to be progressed as part of a potential overall investment of £220 million.

“This is an extremely positive step and will go some way to ensuring more and more of our children are provided with a first class education in a modern, suitable environment.

"The Minster also announced the creation of a £40m schools enhancement programme to improve school buildings.

“Under this scheme, £20 million will be made available over each of the next two years and individual schools will be able to apply for funding of up to £4million for refurbishing or extending existing buildings.

“This is good news for all concerned with making sure our children have a first class education. The investment benefits to the construction industry and wider economy are also going to have a positive effect during these lean times.

“This announcement provides a potential investment of up to £625million to the local economy and secure some 6200 jobs in the construction industry on these projects."