Written answers
Wednesday, 24 April 2024
Department of Education and Skills
After-School Support Services
Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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69. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if, given the serious shortage in childcare and in particular after school facilities, she will approve the use of primary school buildings as after school service premises by childcare operators, as there is a severe shortage of premises available to provide these services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18260/24]
Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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My Department supports and encourages the use of school buildings for community and recreational purposes, where feasible, including childcare and after school uses. However, the decision on the use of school property is a matter for the property owner taking into considerations the requirements of the school, students and staff. Also it is important that any proposed arrangement does not impede upon the future development of the school, given that the priority for schools is educational provision for its pupils.
My Department has published Guidelines for the Use of School Buildings outside of School Hours. These Guidelines are available for each school to refer to for guidance in relation to the use of school buildings outside of school hours, including any planned after school and childcare arrangements. These Guidelines are not intended to be exhaustive or prescriptive but are provided to assist schools in considering applications for the use of their facilities.
The Guidelines (or Procedures as they are to be called) are in the process of being updated and these Procedures are expected to be published shortly.
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