Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 June 2012
184 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Skills the cost to the Exchequer of the closure of a primary school on any given school day; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30520/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe minimum number of teaching days per school year at primary level is 183 full school days. Schools have local flexibility in determining how they make up the required number of teaching days, subject to adherence to the agreed standardisation in relation to the mid-term, Christmas and Easter breaks. Any additional days on which a school closes within this overall framework are a matter for the Board of Management of each school.
School authorities also have discretion in relation to the need for exceptional school closures whether this arises from adverse weather, failure of heating or water system or other unforeseen reason. In general, a school closure due to unforeseen circumstances should be compensated for later in the school year.
In the event that it is not possible to subsequently make up for such a school closure, the costs to the Exchequer will primarily relate to the school's staffing costs and this will depend on the size of the school in question.
