Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Insofar as possible, where there are new builds or where schools have to be moved, the Department always attempts to keep some of the play space and to make sure it is not completely taken. The Department also ensures play areas are part and parcel of the development of new builds, be it PE halls inside the school or covered areas for children to be able to use in bad weather or if they do not have outdoor space. It is always a priority to make sure a play space is provided when new schools are developed or when schools are being moved or that such space can be accommodated or provided in another setting. It is not always possible or straightforward but it is something the Department prioritises.

This also comes back to Deputy Boland's question on what in particular is being done to try to support schools and principals. Work has been done in that regard. There are officers and project managers who directly support principals and schools. Again, maybe it is a matter of looking at how that is working and how we can somehow improve it.

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