Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 Mar 2000

Vol. 516 No. 1

Written Answers. - School Accommodation.

Willie Penrose

Question:

131 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress, if any, being made to provide the additional accommodation required at St. Etchen's national school, Kinnegad, County Westmeath; if he will immediately sanction the provision of a car park as part of this in view of the fact this is essential to provide for the safety of children attending this school and ensure that the necessary lands are being made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7091/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods):

Individual school authorities are responsible, in the first instance, for ensuring the safety and welfare of children and others in their care. While my Department is prepared to consider applications from school authorities for grant aid towards improving safety arrangements at individual schools, grant aid is not available for works outside the vested area of the school.

The position in regard to additional car parking spaces at St Etchen's national school, Kinnegad is that my Department has informed the chairperson that a consultant has been approved to prepare a development plan for the immediate area. When this has been received the matter will be considered further.