asked the Minister for Education (a) if it is a requirement of his Department that the trustees of national schools insure the school premises against fire and tempest; (b) if he is satisfied that all such school premises are adequately insured against such eventualities; (c) if he has any means of enforcing such a provision in the case of schools where such provisions have not been complied with; (d) if he will specify such means; and (e) the number of proceedings that have been taken by his Department to ensure compliance with the Department's requirements.
Written Answers. - National School Insurance.
302.
It is a requirement of the rules for national schools and of the official lease vesting the school in trustees that the school premises and furniture are adequately insured by the trustees against damage by fire. Where such insurance had not been effected, grants would not be made for the purpose of rebuilding or refurnishing in the event of the destruction of the premises or furniture by fire.
Under the terms of the lease the trustees covenant to produce, when required, the policy of insurance and the current year's receipt for premiums paid. The adequancy of the insurance would be a matter primarily in which the trustees would be guided by their insurance advisors.
My Department are not aware of any case in which the requirement as regards insurance has not been complied with. Should any such case come to notice, appropriate steps would be taken to have the position rectified.