O’Shea Welcomes €80 Million Investment in School Improvements – Three Cork North West Schools to Benefit

Deputy John Paul O’Shea TD has welcomed an €80 million investment in school improvement projects nationwide, with three schools in Cork North West among those approved for funding under the 2027 Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.

The Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton TD, has announced approval for 229 projects across the country, representing a significant investment in improving school buildings, facilities and energy efficiency.

In Cork North West, three schools have been approved for funding:

– Dromina National School, Dromina, Charleville – Climate action and toilet facilities works.

– Coláiste Treasa, Kanturk – Climate action and toilet facilities works.

– St. Mary’s Secondary School, Charleville – Climate action and electrical works.

A further 16 schools across County Cork have also been approved for projects under this latest tranche.

Welcoming the announcement, Deputy O’Shea said “This is very welcome news for schools across Cork, and particularly for the three schools in Cork North West which have been approved for funding.

“I am delighted to see Dromina National School, Coláiste Treasa in Kanturk and St. Mary’s Secondary School in Charleville included in this announcement.

“These investments will help address important facilities and infrastructure needs in each of these schools. Having a modern, safe and comfortable school environment is essential for students and staff, and these improvements will make a positive difference to the day-to-day experience of the school communities.

“I am particularly pleased to see schools in different parts of Cork North West benefiting from this funding. Our rural schools and smaller communities must continue to receive investment to ensure that children have access to high-quality educational facilities close to home.

“It is also encouraging to see a further 16 schools across County Cork benefiting from this latest round of approvals, with projects ranging from roof repairs and window replacement to electrical, mechanical and wider environmental improvements.

“The scheme is about more than simply maintaining school buildings. It is also about making our schools more energy efficient, reducing carbon emissions and helping schools manage their energy costs over the longer term.”

Deputy O’Shea added “The multi-annual nature of the scheme is particularly important. Schools which have not received approval in this tranche should not lose hope, as their applications remain eligible for consideration in future rounds.

“I will continue to advocate for investment in schools throughout Cork North West and across the county. Our schools play a central role in our communities, and it is important that they have the facilities and infrastructure needed to provide the best possible learning environment for the next generation.”

The Department has indicated that the approved projects are expected to be delivered predominantly during the summer of 2027, with the next tranche of approvals from the current application pool expected in late 2027.