Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 October 2008
209 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools at primary and second level that have purpose built physical education facilities; if he is satisfied with this provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36327/08]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe specific information sought by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department and in view of other competing priorities in the capital area, it is not possible to allocate staffing resources to the compilation of the information at this stage.
My Department's design guidelines for schools include guidance on the provision of PE Halls, general purpose rooms and outdoor hard play areas such as basketball courts. PE facilities have been provided, where appropriate, as part of my Department's school building programme which, between 2000 and 2006, involved the delivery of over 7,800 projects, with an investment of €2.6 billion. A further €4.5 billion is to be invested under the current National Development Plan 2007-2013. Close to €600m of this will be provided this year alone. This multi-annual funding will enable my Department to continue to take a proactive approach to the provision of modern school accommodation including PE facilities.
