Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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657. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason national schools have been repeatedly closed for elections over the past two years, despite alternative community halls being available in areas (details supplied). [57979/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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In relation to school closures due to elections, overall responsibility for the running of elections and arrangements in this regard is a matter for the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Returning Officers are statutorily responsible for the conduct of elections and may, under electoral law, use school premises for this purpose. Schools must, in accordance with electoral law, make their premises available for polling where requested by a Returning Officer. It is not open to the Minister for Education and Youth to unilaterally amend these provisions.