James Geoghegan (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

789. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her plans to address the shortage of after-school places for children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44947/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I thank the Deputy for raising this important issue.

The Department of Education and Youth acknowledges the increasing demand for after-school places and the essential role these services play in supporting children and families. While the direct provision of after-school care is not within the department’s remit, we work closely with the Department of Children, Disability and Equality which oversees school-age childcare services.

To support schools in facilitating after-school and childcare arrangements, the department has published 'Procedures on the Use of School Property and School Sports Facilities Outside of School Hours'. These procedures provide clear guidance for schools on how their buildings and facilities may be used outside of regular school hours, including for after-school and crèche services. Each school can refer to these procedures when considering such arrangements, ensuring that any use aligns with governance and safety standards.

Schools are encouraged to make their facilities available for after-school services where feasible, and Boards of Management have discretion in these matters. Importantly, any income generated from such use does not affect school funding allocations.

While the decision on the use of school property is a matter for the property owner, it is important that any proposed arrangement does not impede upon the future development or requirements of the school, given that the priority for schools is educational provision for its pupils.