04 November, 2006 - Minister Hanafin announces special €6.5m package for primary schools to renew PE equipment

Hanafin announces special €6.5m package for primary schools to renew PE equipment

Minister for Education and Science Mary Hanafin T.D., today announced details of a special PE funding package, of over €6.5 million, to be issued to all 3,200 primary schools in the coming weeks. Under the package, every school will receive €2,000 towards the cost of replacing and upgrading PE equipment in their school.

Minister Hanafin said "this special PE equipment grant is being issued to all primary schools, as a once-off measure, to enable schools improve the PE facilities in their school. The grant will be worth €2,000 for each school and will mean that schools can replace older equipment - goalposts, PE mats, benches etc. I know that the modern equipment which can be purchased will help facilitate PE and sporting activities in schools, which everyone recognises is a very important aspect of school life."

Minister Hanafin said that this funding package is being made as part of this Government's continued commitment to modernise facilities in schools throughout the country. She also expects to announce a PE equipment grant for post-primary schools in the coming months.

Schools will receive funding in the coming weeks along with their Minor Works Grant payment.

ENDS