Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 June 2014
226. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Skills the health and safety supports that are available to teachers in one-teacher schools, in view of the number of schools that will be in position owing to his 2011-2012 budgetary decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24352/14]
View answerDay to day running of a school, including those with just one full time teacher, is a matter for the Board of Management of each school. Schools are required to take all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of pupils and to participate in supervising pupils when the pupils are on the school premises, during school time and/or on school activities.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is the national statutory body with responsibility for ensuring that health and safety requirements are met by all employers, including schools. The Authority also provides information and advice to organisations to assist them in ensuring that their responsibilities in respect of health and safety in the workplace are met.
The Health and Safety Authority in conjunction with the Kilkenny Education Centre issued guidance to all primary schools in relation to managing safety, health and welfare. These guidelines were developed following consultation with relevant stakeholders and include some specific guidance for a one-teacher setting. This guidance is published on the website of the Health and Safety Authority.
