Schools able to apply for grants to install air filters

Schools across Meath will soon be able to access grants to install HEPA air filters in their classrooms to help in the battle against Covid after Education Minister Norma Foley announced funding of €62 million this week.

Minister Foley announced the payment of a minor works grant totalling €45m for primary schools and special schools as part of additional support in the context of Covid-19. Once-off Covid-19 minor works funding of €17m was also announced for post-primary schools.

Given that each school setting is different, individual schools will be able to decide how best to use this funding to address their particular needs.

Arrangements are now being made for the payment of these grants to schools.

Minister Foley said: “This significant increase in funding for schools will enable them to address both their minor works requirements and also to address small-scale ventilation improvements at school level as a short-term mitigation measure, should they require to do so.

“Minor works funding is important in terms of supporting the operation of schools generally and particularly within a Covid-19 environment. Schools may also apply for emergency works grant assistance to address larger-scale issues on a permanent basis.

“This funding also provides an opportunity for schools to enhance their outdoor learning environments for use as the weather permits.”