Joe O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the schools that are opening their doors and facilitating a variety of community groups. It happens quite a bit and many of us perhaps do not realise it happens because a lot of the activities are school related, for example homework clubs, breakfast clubs, summer camps and sporting and other activities. We almost assume that they are part of the school process, but they are very much a community function as well.

I would like to add my voice to the call that has been made. I ask schools to consider opening their doors even if they have concerns or are reluctant to do so. The document issued in 2017 is a pretty good one in terms of the guidelines on the use of school buildings outside of school hours. It outlines a comprehensive list of areas schools must be aware of and issues of which they should be cognisant if they are thinking of doing that. That said, on foot of Deputy Stanton's question last week, I have written to the Minister for Education, Deputy Foley, and asked for engagement on this issue. She said she will look into it and get back to me. We are actively looking into the matter.

I acknowledge Deputy Bruton's points about specific issues we can examine. I will take them away. We have a new capital fund for community centres and we expect that to be announced soon. It is all part of a range of measures that we as a Department implement in terms of supporting community spaces. The community services programme does a lot of work in that regard as well. I am very pleased to push this on further. I will also make contact with the Minister, Deputy O'Gorman, because the matter is relevant to his Department also.

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