Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 3

Written Answers. - Physical Education Facilities.

Enda Kenny

Question:

96 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has carried out an audit of physical education facilities available to primary schools; whether 54% of primary schools have no general purposes room and 78% of primary schools cannot implement the physical education programme due to inadequate space; if up to 67% of schools require new or replacement equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26505/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

My Department has not carried out a recent audit of physical education facilities at primary schools. However, arrangements are being made to conduct a major survey of accommodation at primary and post-primary level and this will establish the position relating to the extent and condition of all accommodation, including physical education facilities. The specifications for the inventory are being drafted at present and it is anticipated that tenders will be sought within the next few months.

In the case of primary schools, the new planning guidelines in operation for all new building projects since January 2000 make provision for general purposes areas ranging from 91 square metres to 200 square metres, depending on the size of the school. Where an application is made for major capital improvement works by the management authorities of an existing school, it is the policy of my Department to assess the overall future accommodation needs of the school. Where site conditions permit, a general purposes area is included in the planning brief, even when this may not have been the subject of the initial application.

Provision is also made in the guidelines for hardplay areas and ballcourts ranging in size from 785 square metres to in excess of 1,600 square metres, depending on the anticipated enrolment figures.

In regard to the purchase of equipment, my Department has revised the terms of the grant scheme for minor works to national school properties in operation since January 1997. Earlier this year, the level of funding increased from a basic grant of £2,000 to £3,000 per school and from £9 to £10 per pupil on rolls at 30 September. Boards of management may expend this grant on the physical infrastructure of the school or on items of furniture and physical education equipment, depending on their priorities. It is also open to school managers to apply to my Department for grant-aid towards equipment if the cost is outside the scope of the scheme for minor works.