Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 November 2013
62. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of schools not in compliance with Departmental circulars regarding school opening hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48438/13]
View answerUnder the provisions of the Education Act, 1998, the Board of Management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school. In managing a school, the Boards is required to comply with the relevant provisions of the Education Act 1998 and the terms of Circulars issued by my Department.
The provisions in relation to minimum school hours are set out in my Department's "Time in School" Circulars; 11/95 (for primary schools) and M29/95 (for post primary schools).
At primary level a full day comprises a period of not less than five hours and forty minutes. At post-primary level the relevant circular provides that the minimum number of instruction hours per week is 28.
There is no requirement on individual schools to report their opening hours to my Department.
