Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 31 May 1994

Vol. 443 No. 4

Written Answers. - School Vandalism.

Peter Barry

Question:

77 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Education the number of schools in Cork which were seriously vandalised or suffered arson attacks in the last five years; the amount of damage caused; the cost of repairing this damage; the measures, if any, that have been implemented or contemplated to deal with this problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Peter Barry

Question:

189 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Education the amount and extent of damage caused to primary, secondary and vocational schools in Cork city; the way in which the trend compares to other urban areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 189 together. Detailed information is not available on the number of schools in Cork damaged by vandalism, the extent of such vandalism or the cost of repairs.

Security of school buildings is a matter for the school authorities in the first instance. In the case of primary, secondary and vocational schools the cost of repairing damage from vandalism is borne by the schools' insurance and my Department is not normally provided with details. There are therefore no specific figures available in respect of those schools for the costs arising directly from vandalism.

At post-primary level all new schools and major extensions are designed with provision for intruder alarm systems. Alarm systems may also be provided as resources permit in existing second-level schools where the need is established. Grants are also provided for such systems in national schools in high-risk urban areas. In addition security lighting and perimeter fencing is provided where the particular circumstances of the school warrant it. Many schools, particularly in the large urban areas, have also found it necessary to employ security guards to protect their buildings.

In the case of ten schools in the Finglas area of Dublin, which have been heavily vandalised, a pilot scheme on school security is being operated to provide night security involving a guard and guard dogs. The scheme is being monitored on an ongoing basis and will be reviewed at the end of the current school year.