Mr. Eamonn Cusack:

The idea is that we will have a whole-town approach as opposed to the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport providing community-based sports halls and schools also providing that. The idea that facilities could be shared would save taxpayers' money. If there is one in a town the idea is to question if there is a need to put three or four PE halls in schools in that town.

The Deputy also asked about ensuring there would be no-fry zones around schools. It is open to any school or individual to object to a planning application that is made. The Department is not keen to see fast food outlets opening up close to schools. As in the case of any other facility, if the person who is interested in opening up a fast food outlet submits a planning application, it is up to the schools in the area to object.