Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 January 2025
672. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Education if she will consider a scheme for the acquisition, over time, of the school buildings of non-fee paying schools so that they can be made available for community and other purposes, where possible and feasible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2073/25]
View answerMy Department supports and encourages the use of school buildings for community and recreational where feasible.
As the Deputy may be aware, the 'Procedures on the use of school property and school sports facilities outside of school hours' were published in June of 2024. The Procedures replaced the ‘Guidelines on the use of School Buildings outside of School Hours’ which had been in use prior to this.
The Procedures highlight the value and importance of school buildings and school sports facilities being used outside of school hours.
The priority for my Department’s capital funding continues to be the provision of required additional school places to meet demographic requirements as well as for children with special educational needs.
