John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 215: To ask the Minister for Education and Science his views on introducing an insurance scheme through his Department for students visiting historical and educational sites which may not be covered by private insurers for such tours (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36361/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The issue of insurance for schools is a matter for the school authority concerned and this is the case in relation to the general conduct of a school's business whether in the school setting or in the context mentioned by the Deputy. In that context a school should be satisfied that it is adequately covered by insurance against liability in respect of injury to pupils and teachers while participating in educational tours. The precise nature and terms of such insurance is a matter between individual schools and their insurers.

Of course the insurance required by any school in such instance need only relate to any potential liability it or its agents might be found to have. Insurance cover for any liability that the owners of historical and educational sites might be found to have is of course a matter for those parties. My Department has no plans to introduce an insurance scheme of the nature suggested by the Deputy.