Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 June 2016
135. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will examine the regulations and practices for breakfast and after-school clubs; if he will provide this extra provision as part of a school service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17828/16]
View answerIn general, school authorities have a considerable degree of autonomy in relation to how their premises are managed and utilised at local level. The use of school facilities must be approved by the school authority.
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.
In facilitating such extra provision there are a number of complex issues that need to be considered in respect of such arrangements. These issues - including property, governance, insurance and liability - are being considered as part of a review within my Department of the requirements to be established around the use of school premises/property for pre-school and after school services and the preparation of guidelines in relation to same.
As you may be aware, there are key commitments in the Programme for a Partnership Government (May 2016) in relation to encouraging the use of school buildings in this respect and the Government has committed to delivering progress on this within the first 100 days. My Department is also working closely with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs in relation to these commitments in order to facilitate the use of school premises outside of the school day.
