Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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218. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if there are any financial supports available for establishing an afterschool service (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16389/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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My Department encourages schools to facilitate the opening of after-school facilities, wherever possible, for activities such as afterschool clubs. Decisions on the use of school facilities lies with the relevant school authority in consultation with the property owner.

Under the provisions of the Education Act, 1998 the Board of Management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school on behalf of the patron.As the Deputy may be aware, the 'Procedures on the use of school property and school sports facilities outside of school hours' were published in June 2024. The procedures highlight the value and importance of school buildings and school sports facilities being used outside of school hours.

Funding for the provision of school-age childcare is a matter for the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality.