Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 July 2020
691. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the status of school insurance policies for schools, teachers and pupils in view of the current Covid-19 pandemic; if the policies cover the schools, teachers and pupils in the current environment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20444/20]
View answerResponsibility for procurement of insurance and payment of same rests with Boards of Management and the Education and Training Boards (ETBs) in respect of schools operated by them. If a particular school has a query in relation to insurance it should raise this directly with its insurance provider.
Boards of Management and ETBs should take a proactive approach when it comes to sourcing insurance in order to ensure best value is obtained and to ensure compliance with public procurement procedures.
The Schools Procurement Unit which has a national remit is available to advise and assist schools in relation to procurement matters.
As part of the management of the risks there is an onus on Boards of Management and the Education and Training Boards (ETBs) in respect of schools operated by them to ensure, as appropriate, that they have put in place comprehensive insurance cover for schools. Boards are advised by my Department to ensure that all such insurances are effected and maintained as are necessary to safeguard the school, the Board and the Trustees against all public liability.
