Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 November 2013
247. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to ensure that schools complete structured maintenance and risk management plans and his Department implements regular inspections to ensure compliance. [50691/13]
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 the schools, Boards are required to comply with the relevant provisions of the Education Act 1998, the Rules for National Schools and the terms of Circulars issued by my Department. Schools also have a responsibility under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, to have a safety statement in place in their schools. The Statement should identify potential hazards, assess the risks to health and safety and put appropriate provision in place to safeguard the safety and health of employees and pupils. The Safety Statement should be reviewed on a regular basis.
