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23/10/2009
The Minister for Education this week announced an emphasis on cost reduction for water consumption in the Summer Works Scheme grant that schools should be aware of according to Senator Cecilia Keaveney
"Metering of schools is to begin next year and schools will face bills based on consumption. It is important that schools are helped to achieve as low a mis-usage of water as possible. To keep schools’ water bills down the Minister is inviting schools to seek funding for small-scale projects under the 2010 Summer Works Scheme New water conservation measure. This would grant-aid the fitting of simple water-saving devices to toilets and wash-hand basins in schools
The Summer Works Scheme already covers such small-scale things as gas, electrical and mechanical works, roof replacements and repairs, window replacement, toilet upgrades, structural improvements and access works.
From January 1, full metered water charges will apply in schools, with each local authority setting its own rate. Now, schools pay a fixed rate per pupil of €4 or the full metered rate if it’s lower. Local authorities will install the meters, although most schools already have them.
Given that state-of-the-art water conservation design approaches are being used in our new schools and new school extensions as part of the standard low-energy school designs, it is important to focus on existing buildings.
This grant focus is designed to minimise the impact of the new metering system on schools’ budgets. The Minister has said he will fund the whole cost of carrying out the works approved under the scheme and the works will take place over the summer holidays so that disruption of the school is also minimised.
The Summer Works Scheme had disappeared briefly but it was a scheme that I had made strong representations to the Minister to reinstate. Many schools across the county and country have gained from the small but vital cash injections that it facilitates. This is merely another example of a practical need being met" concluded Senator Cecilia Keaveney, Spokesperson on Education in Seanad Eireann.
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