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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 15 Nov 2001

Vol. 544 No. 2

Written Answers. - School Insurance Costs.

Ivor Callely

Question:

144 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education and Science his understanding of the insurance costs and insurance companies demands on primary and secondary schools in the Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28335/01]

I am aware of concerns expressed by school authorities in relation to increased insurance costs and related conditions, referred to by the Deputy. At primary level, schools running costs have been traditionally met by my Department's scheme of capitation grants and the local contribution. These grants are intended to contribute towards the general operating costs of primary schools, including insurance costs. In the case of secondary schools, it is a matter for the managerial authorities of the individual schools to arrange insurance cover on school property and against public liability. Grant aid towards voluntary secondary school funding costs provided by my Department by way of per capita grants may be used for this purpose.

I am aware that the insurers of a number of secondary schools indicated to the management authorities of the schools that they should take certain specified action if they were to avoid an increase in their premia or an excess amount for which they would not be given insurance cover. In some cases the specified actions included work of a capital nature. The management authorities of the affected schools sought funding assistance from my Department towards the cost of the capital work. My Department has agreed to provide the assistance sought.

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