John Brassil (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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161. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the current policy towards the opening and facilitation of preschools in existing primary schools where there is adequate space to provide a facility and a demonstrated need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16737/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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The Governance Manual for Primary Schools 2015 - 2019 specifies that the use of school premises during the school day, for purposes other than regular school business, must have the prior approval of the Minister.

Proposals to the Minister to allow use of accommodation during the school day have been facilitated in the past, provided that the school's current and future accommodation needs are not compromised and the consent of the patron has been received. In general, future accommodation needs for the primary school intake will take precedence over the needs of the preschool. A proposal from the school concerned will be considered in that regard.

In facilitating the establishment of preschools in schools or co-located with schools, my Department looks favourably on the establishment of preschool facilities on school sites. However, there are a number of complex issues that need to be considered in respect of such arrangements. These issues, including property, governance, insurance and liability, are being considered as part of a review within my Department of the requirements to be established around the use of school premises/property for preschool services and the preparation of guidelines in relation to same.

My Department is seeking legal advice in relation to certain aspects and when this advice is received, it will be considered by officials in my Department with a view to putting arrangements in place to facilitate this matter.

My Department is also working closely with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs in relation to the Programme for Government commitment to facilitate the use of school premises outside of the school day for afterschool care and other community purposes.