Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 95: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if swimming lessons organised during school time by a primary school and paid for by a parent are a compulsory activity set by the Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40804/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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At primary level, the curriculum in Physical Education includes six broad strands featuring Athletics, Dance, Gymnastics, Games, Outdoor and adventure activities and Aquatics. While five of the strands are designed to be implemented each year where possible, the Aquatics strand is outlined for implementation at any level, depending on the availability of facilities in the area.

The Physical Education curricula at both primary and second level have been developed on the understanding that facilities available to schools vary. Consequently, they offer a level of flexibility that allows each individual school to design a programme that can be delivered using the resources and supports available to it. Where schools decide to provide pupils with swimming classes in school time, they are expected to fund them from resources already available to them. Under the Rules for National Schools, while voluntary contributions may be sought, no school may charge a fee as a condition of admission to an activity provided within school hours.

My Department does not provide specific grants to primary schools to fund swimming classes. At primary level, schools currently receive, in ancillary and capitation grants, at least €355 per student. Enhanced rates are payable for students who are members of the Travelling community or who have special educational needs. Primary schools may use this funding to support the implementation of the curriculum, including Physical Education.