Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:189 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education if she has any future policy for the use of school buildings by the community outside school terms.
Written Answers. - Use of School Buildings.
The position in relation to national schools is that since these schools are under local patronage and management, arrangements for the use of premises after school hours or outside term time are a matter for the board of management of each school.
I have no objection to the use of schools by community groups, provided: that the prior permission of the individual board of management be obtained; that the assent of the trustees be obtained; that an undertaking be given that every care will be taken to safeguard school property and that any damage to the school premises or equipment will be made good by those responsible for the activity; that arrangements be made to leave the premises in a clean and tidy condition for the reception of pupils so that school work will not be affected; that an adequate insurance against damage by fire be effected if the ordinary policy of insurance taken out by the school authorities does not cover the use of the school buildings for purposes other than national school purposes; and that the board ensure that sufficient charge is made to cover any expense incurred in providing heating and lighting during the use of the school by outside groups.
In so far as community schools are concerned the deeds of trust in respect of such schools provide for their use for community purposes. The question of when they are used for such purposes is basically a matter for the board of management of each school.
Similarly, the use of vocational and secondary schools outside of school terms is a matter for the managerial authorities of these schools.