NO CLARE schools applied for additional funding to install HEPA air filtration devices.
When used properly, air cleaners and HEPA filters can help reduce airborne contaminants including viruses in a building or small space. Their use in schools had been sought by Unions in light of rising COVID-19 cases in education settings.
There were more outbreaks associated with school pupils and staff in the second half of last year than in any other public setting. While 919 outbreaks were recorded in the fourth wave of the virus between June 27th and December 31st, the next highest figure of 514 outbreaks were associated with school students and staff over the last six months of 2021.
Opened windows have been a constant in schools across the country since their reopening with the resulting chill making the educational environment more difficult for both students and staff.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education confirmed, “No schools in Co. Clare have applied for additional funding under the emergency works scheme to assist with ventilation or HEPA air cleaners”.
It followed a parliamentary question from Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) seeking detail from the Minister for Education, Norma Foley (FF) on the “number of primary and post-primary schools in Co Clare that have been equipped with HEPA air filtration devices, the number of HEPA devices installed per school”.
“Managing ventilation is just one of a suite of public health measures in place to keep our schools safe,” the response outlined. Additional support through a minor works grant totalling €45m for primary schools and special schools, plus a once-off Covid-19 minor works funding of €17m for post-primary schools was issued in December 2021. All schools in the free scheme have received their grants. To date, three applications from fee charging schools have been received, these are being assessed.
Each school is best placed how best to use funding to address particular needs, the Department outlined. “Air cleaning devices are not a substitute for good ventilation but can be considered pending the completion of interventions/works where poor ventilation persists. This is in line with the Expert Group recommendations. Air filtration does not negate the need for natural ventilation and opening windows as required. Furthermore Mike Ryan of the World Health Organisation’s Health Emergencies Programme has advised schools not to rely solely on air filters”.
Schools that can identify “inadequate ventilation” in a room can utilise their minor work grant or apply for emergency works grant assistance to address ventilation enhancements where the minor work grant does not cover the full cost of the works required.
