Vol. 545 No. 3
160 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans for the recognition and development of Tanagh outdoor recreation centre, Cootehill, County Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30267/01]
Consideration is being given to the recognition for funding purposes of the three operational VEC outdoor education centres, including that of Tanagh, which are not currently in receipt of such funding.
My Department provides annual grants towards the cost of staffing and equipment in respect of nine recognised VEC outdoor education centres. Officials of my Department are currently in negotiation with various representatives of the staff of the recognised outdoor education centres regarding their status, salary, and terms and conditions of employment. The regularisation of the staffing position within the centres will represent a major improvement in the operation of the centres. This regularisation of staffing may, however, have significant cost implications for the centres, and any new arrangements agreed will be relevant in determining my Departments future budgetary planning and funding strategy for VEC outdoor education centres. It is in this context that recognition of the three centres, including Tanagh, will be addressed.
The expansion of the network of outdoor education centres will be, in the normal way, subject to standard budgetary constraints in relation to the availability of funding, particularly funding for capital development.
