Terence Flanagan
Question:163. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will address a matter (details supplied) regarding school buildings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40876/15]
View answerWednesday, 18 November 2015
Questions (163)
Written answers
In general, school authorities have a considerable degree of autonomy in relation to how their premises are managed and utilised at local level. It should also be noted that the vast majority of primary school buildings in the country are in private ownership. My Department has a general policy of encouraging the use of school facilities by community and other groups where this is possible. However, any proposal for the use of school facilities outside of normal schools hours must be approved by the local school management authorities in the first instance. In 2005, my Department issued a circular to Trustees, Boards of Management and Principals of Primary and Voluntary Secondary Schools (Circular Letter Prim 16/05) to encourage Trustees and Boards of Management to make their facilities available where possible for community, education and recreation purposes. This circular recognises that the decision ultimately lies with the relevant Board or Trustees and that the first priority at all times should be the interest of the school, its teachers and pupils.