Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 3 Oct 2001

Vol. 541 No. 2

Written Answers. - Schools Recognition.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

1158 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the recognition for funding purposes of Tanagh outdoor education centre, Dartry, Rockcorry, County Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22400/01]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods):

Positive consideration is being given to the recognition for funding purposes of the three operational VEC outdoor educational centres, including Tanagh, which are not currently in receipt of such funding.

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department provides annual grants towards the cost of staff ing and equipment in respect of nine recognised VEC outdoor education centres. Negotiations between my officials and trade union representatives of the staff employed in the centres regarding improved terms and conditions of employment are taking place at present. In conjunction with these negotiations, issues relating to the future funding of outdoor education centres are being considered. Any new arrangements reached will be relevant in determining my Department's future budgetary planning and funding strategy for VEC outdoor education centres. It is in this context that the matter of recognising Tanagh outdoor education centre is being addressed.

The expansion of the network of outdoor education centres will in the normal way be subject to standard budgetary constraints in relation to the availability of funding, in particular for capital development.