Noel McCarthy (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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609. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason the updated ‘Procedures on the use of school property and school sports facilities outside of school hours’ are not being implemented by a school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24199/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I refer to the Deputy’s enquiry concerning the above matter.

The Programme for Government commits to expand the provision of after-school and childcare in school buildings and campuses, in tandem with the school building programme, to provide better access for parents and communities. My Department is considering steps which can be taken to meet this commitment.

The policy of my Department has been to encourage the use of school facilities, where possible, for community and recreational purposes outside of school hours.

However, the decision on the use of school property and school sports facilities is a matter for the owner of this property, the licensee and the school management taking into consideration the current and future needs of the school, staff and students.

Any enquiry concerning the use of school facilities outside of school hours should be addressed to the school authority.