Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 March 2015
227. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the insurance, security, permission, and other issues which need to be considered if primary schools are to be used on a widespread basis to provide after school child care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10760/15]
View answerThe vast majority of primary school buildings are in private ownership and I fully acknowledge the need for Trustees and Boards to prioritise the interests of the principal school users and to protect their own interests. Guidance on the sharing of school facilities was set out in Departmental circular 16/05 to all Boards of Management.
These guidelines specify that the Trustees and Boards would need to ensure that, inter alia:1. There is a licence agreement between the Board and the group using the school premises
2. The agreement with users of school facilities should be underwritten by a contract. This contract should be reviewed regularly
3. Any agreement should be in conformity with the lease for the building.
4. There is an arrangement in place to cover additional costs for insurance, heating, lighting, cleaning and maintenance of the areas used by the groups
5. All external groups using the school have public liability cover and adequate insurance. Insurance certificates should be presented to the Board of Management annually.
6. Health and safety issues are addressed
7. Child Protection Guidelines are followed.
