Education Minister clarifies capital budget

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has said that contrary to recent statements from other politicians the Department of Education's capital budget for 2010/11 is £170million.

The Minister said: "There has been some ill-informed comment recently about my Department's budgets, particularly for capital works.  Contrary to what has been said by other politicians our capital budget for 2010/11 is approximately £170 million. This will mainly be used to provide accommodation for pupils and teachers that is fit for the 21^st century.

“We have made good progress in updating the schools estate in many areas with new schools just completed and more on site. The Executive’s 10-year Investment Strategy allocated £700 million over the investment period for over 100 major schools projects to be taken forward.”

Notes to editors:

1. Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.