asked the Minister for Education the conditions for use of primary schools when they are not in use for school classes, i.e. during evening time; if she will allow schools to be used by local political parties; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - After Hours Use of Schools.
93.
The conditions governing the use of these schools outside school hours are as follows: (1) that the prior permission of the board of management be obtained; (2) that the assent of the trustees be obtained; (3) that an undertaking be given that every care will be taken to safeguard school property and that any damage to the school premises or equipment will be made good by those responsible for the activity; (4) that arrangements be made to leave the premises (including out-offices) in a clean and tidy condition for the reception of pupils so that school work will not be interrupted; (5) that the function should terminate at a reasonable hour; (6) that an adequate insurance against damge by fire be effected if the ordinary policy of insurance taken out by the school authorities does not cover the use of the school buildings for purposes other than national school purposes; (7) that the board of management ensure that a sufficient charge is made to cover any expense incurred in providing heating and lighting during the use of the school by outside groups.
As regards the use of schools for political purposes, Rule 9 of the Rules for National Schools is as follows: 9. (1) At a contested Dáil Election or Presidential Election or Local Election or at a Referendum, any room in a school may be requisitioned by the appropriate Returning Officer for such election, free of charge, for the purpose of taking the poll. (2) A schoolroom may also be used for public meetings at reasonable times outside school hours by candidates at an election of members of Dáil Éireann between the issue of the writ and the day of the poll under the provisions of section 30 of the Electoral Act 1923. (3) No political meeting may be held nor may any political business be transacted in schools, whether vested or non-vested, except as provided in sections (1) and (2) of this rule.
The stipulation in Rule 9 (3) is of a long-standing nature and it would not be appropriate to make an alteration to it without due regard to the views of the recognised school managerial and teacher organisations.