Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 June 2026
182. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth her views on the requirements from the Dublin and Dún Laoghaire Education Training Board for ETB staff members to be present when community groups use school halls or sports facilities outside of school hours; if this policy can be reviewed; if the cost associated with this can be reviewed to make it more accessible to community groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48174/26]
View answerThe management of school facilities for use outside of hours is a matter for the relevant school authorities. The onus is on school authorities to ensure that sufficient arrangements are in place for the save and secure use of the premises.
The department published procedures on the use of school property and school sports facilities outside of school hours to assist school authorities when entering arrangements with local and community groups. A key principle of these procedures is that such arrangements should be self-financing. At a minimum, any charges applied should cover costs such as maintenance, utilities, additional insurance, legal requirements, and any other associated overheads.
As the arrangement to use the facilities is between the relevant school authority and the community group, it is appropriate that these parties discuss the matter to arrive at a satisfactory outcome.
