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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 12 Jun 2001

Vol. 537 No. 5

Written Answers. - School Insurance.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

572 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties that some schools are experiencing trying to obtain insurance cover for the school premises; if his attention has further been drawn to the financial burden placed on schools due to insurance conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16888/01]

I have not been made aware that some schools are experiencing difficulties in obtaining insurance cover for their premises.

At primary level, schools' running costs have been traditionally met by my Department's scheme of capitation grants and the local contribution. These grants are intended to contribute towards the general operating costs of primary schools, including insurance costs. The capitation grant has been increased substantially since this Government took office in 1997. It has been increased from £45 per pupil in 1997 to £75.50 per pupil in this school year. In addition, a rate of £80 per pupil will apply in the 2001-02 school year. This constitutes an increase of some 77% over that period.

At second level, the funding arrangements for our schools, including insurance, have evolved in anad hoc manner that reflects the traditional sectoral division of our second level system. In the case of voluntary secondary schools, it is a matter for the managerial authorities of the individual schools to arrange insurance cover on school property and against public liability. Grant aid to voluntary secondary school funding costs is provided by my Department by way of per capita grants, which may be used for this purpose. In the case of vocational schools and colleges, the relevant vocational education committee arranges insurance cover. With regard to community and comprehensive schools, the State provides a general indemnity to the authorities of these schools in lieu of their taking out insurance cover against liabilities which may arise.
I am conscious of the traditional anomalies that have evolved in the funding arrangements, including insurance, for the different school types at second level. I am committed to bringing greater equity and cohesion to this particular aspect of the funding of schools in the light of available resources.
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