Vol. 544 No. 2
145 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has satisfied himself that there are sufficient precautions and security measures in place in primary and secondary schools to deter terror attacks on any school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28336/01]
158 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will take special precautions in respect of schools and colleges arising from international safety concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28418/01]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 145 and 158 together.
In general, security matters and allied issues are properly addressed by individual school management authorities, as they are best placed to assess security needs as they apply to their particular circumstances. My Department will consider each application made by a school management authority for security measures such as CCTV or perimeter fencing on its own merits. Also, the security of the school community is one of the issues considered in the architectural design of a new school building.
There has been no indication to my Department that additional security measures, specific to schools, should be taken to counter terrorist attack in view of the current international climate. If my colleagues in any other Government Department with responsibility for national security, An Garda Síochána or any other body having responsibility for national security indicates to me that specific measures should be taken in schools I will make every effort to put such measures in place as soon as possible. Officials of my Department are in consultation with the Government's emergency planning task force in relation to plans that would require to be implemented in an emergency situation.
