Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 July 2018
270. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps he has taken to prevent an organisation (details supplied) charging for the use of a swimming pool built by a school in 1973; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30946/18]
View answerIn relation to the issue of the charging of fees by schools, the position is that apart from those recognised fee-charging second level schools, recognised primary and post primary schools are precluded from charging school fees.
Voluntary contributions by parents are, however, permissible provided it is made absolutely clear to parents that there is no question of compulsion to pay and that, in making a contribution, they are doing so of their own volition.
The manner in which voluntary contributions are sought and collected is a matter for school management, however their collection should be such as not to create a situation where either parents or pupils could reasonably infer that the contributions take on a compulsory character.
No charge may be made, in respect of instruction in any subject of the school curriculum or for recreation or other activities where all pupils are expected to take part.
However, it is permissible for a school to seek payments in respect of extra-curricular activities, provided such activities are not obligatory and individual pupils can choose whether or not to participate.
Guidelines on the use of School Buildings outside of School Hours were published by my Department in October 2017; these can be viewed on my Department's website.
The purpose of these guidelines is to provide guidance for schools in relation to the use of school buildings outside of school hours and for those schools who are considering putting such arrangements in place.
In general, the management of school premises at local level is a matter for the relevant school authorities, and if a community group is interested in using school facilities contact should be made with the school in the first instance.
