School Security.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2004

Tuesday, 29 June 2004

Questions (173, 174, 175, 176)

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

166 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will take immediate and effective action in respect of the serious concerns of the local community regarding ongoing vandalism at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; if his attention was drawn to the clear need to fast-track a response to deal with these difficulties on an important local educational campus; and if officials of his Department will visit the school and meet parents and staff to discuss options. [19017/04]

Seán Crowe

Question:

168 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention was drawn to the vandalism carried out at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and the measures he proposes to introduce to support the pupils, parents and teachers associated with the school. [19036/04]

Seán Crowe

Question:

169 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if over €24,000 in repairs was spent after attacks on (details supplied) in Dublin 24; if preventative measures are a priority for his Department; and if an application from the school’s management is being considered. [19037/04]

Seán Crowe

Question:

170 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention was drawn to the different groups and Departments associated with a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if, in the interest of co-operation he will initiate a meeting to discuss the ongoing vandalism and attacks on the school. [19038/04]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 166 and 168 to 170, inclusive, together.

I can appreciate the concern of the school community at the wanton vandalism of school property. In the first instance though, the management authorities of the school should report the matter to local gardaí. Local gardaí are best placed to provide practical advice and support and to make recommendations as to how best to mitigate the potential risk to the school. Most Garda stations have a crime prevention officer on the staff who will work with management authorities. If the Garda recommend equipment that cannot be procured from normal funding sources an application for contingency funding can be made to the schools building section.

The school may apply for funding for long-term security measures required at the school as recommended by the Garda. The school's management authorities may apply for funding under the 2005 summer works scheme. Details of the scheme will be announced later this year.