Schools across the country to open doors after-hours for community use – Stanton

School buildings and sports facilities are to be available for use outside of school hours following updated procedures, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy David Stanton, TD for Cork East, has welcomed confirmation from the Department of Education and Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media of the updated measures on the use of school buildings and sports facilities outside of school hours.

“I have long been an advocate of use of school facilities outside of regular school hours, consistently raising the need for updated procedures with the Minister for Education. I successfully had a motion passed by the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party in 2022 and I am delighted to see the result of that work.

“These new procedures underscore the vital role that school buildings and sports facilities play in our communities, particularly when they are accessible outside of regular school hours and such a change is a significant step in enhancing our local communities.

“The updated procedures encourage the maximum use of school facilities by local communities, without impacting school grants, capitation fees, or other departmental funding.

“Moreover, they emphasise the diverse benefits of utilising school facilities outside school hours, such as supporting community life, addressing the need for community spaces, facilitating after-school childcare, reducing transport emissions, and promoting healthy lifestyles.

“In October 2024, a showcase event will be part of the Department of Education’s centennial commemorations, highlighting schools that are actively engaging with their communities by making their facilities available.

“I strongly encourage local community groups and schools to embrace these updated procedures, and recognise the tremendous opportunities these initiatives present for community engagement, well-being, and further development.” concluded Deputy Stanton.