Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 July 2004
154 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has considered the benefits of promoting the use of certain buildings for child care purposes out of school hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21034/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI take it that the Deputy is referring to school buildings. I am anxious that spare accommodation in schools would be available for community use including use for child care purposes, where this is feasible and that any such accommodation would be made available to the local community.
Ultimately it is a matter for the school authorities to determine the usage of school facilities outside of school hours by community groups subject to the terms of any existing lease on the property. Before permitting usage of the property, school authorities should be satisfied that adequate insurance is in place to cover the activities in question, and should ensure that the usage of the facilities does not interfere in any way with the delivery of education in the school.
