Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Nov 2003

Vol. 574 No. 1

Written Answers. - School Closures.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

273 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will discuss with school authorities and other interests the issue of schools being closed for the week preceding Hallowe'en; if his attention has been drawn to the view that such a break gives young people too much time to prepare bonfires which are clearly damaging open spaces throughout communities; his views on the argument that such a break might be scheduled for another time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26132/03]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Dempsey):

The social partnership agreement, Sustaining Progress, provides for the formulation of national guidelines with a view to standardising the mid-term breaks and holiday periods at Christmas and Easter. The arrangements for the current school year have been agreed and discussions are ongoing with the teacher unions and managerial authorities of schools for subsequent school years.

The October mid-term break has traditionally been taken around the Hallowe'en period and the rescheduling of that break may not necessarily have the desired impact with regard to the preparation of bonfires. Nevertheless I will ensure that the issue is raised with all the parties to the discussions.