Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 31 March 2004
159 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will clarify his Department’s guidelines in relation to proper vehicular access to a primary school (details supplied), particularly in relation to emergency vehicles; and if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many primary schools do not have vehicular access to their yards. [10249/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe planning guidelines for primary schools are intended as guidance to assist in the planning of a proper response to the educational needs of individual schools.
In the case of existing school buildings where it is proposed to extend, convert, or renovate them a flexible pragmatic approach would be required regarding the application of the guidelines.
The guidelines outline that where a suitable drop-off point for pupils from buses and cars is not available within a reasonable distance, provision for a lay-by to facilitate buses and/or cars should be made. This lay-by should not be located within the school grounds and arrangements should be made if necessary to cede the appropriate land to the local authority. Provision of turning circles and drop-off points on-site should be avoided. The scope of works required at the school referred to by the Deputy, are appropriate for consideration under the summer works scheme. While the school's application under the summer works scheme for 2004 was unsuccessful it is open to the school's management authority to apply when the 2005 summer works scheme is announced later this year.
