Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Schools Closures.
- National school weather closures 4 speeches
School management may close schools when weather makes attendance impossible or dangerous; no fixed annual limit applies beyond the 184 required opening days.
John Horgan, John P. Wilson
- The Spike school closure 2 speeches
Horgan asked about the Minister’s role in The Spike’s closure; Wilson said he had not seen the television programmes about it.
John Horgan, John P. Wilson
asked the Minister for Education if it is in order for national schools to close because of weather conditions.
Comment on this
The closing of a national school owing to adverse weather conditions or other exceptional cause is a matter for decision by the management authority which, under the Rules for National Schools, is charged with the direct government of the school. It is not abnormal for a management authority to close a school because of weather conditions which make it impossible, or dangerous, for the pupils to attend school, and such closures are sanctioned by the Department.
Comment on this
Is there any limit on the number of days on which schools may be closed in this fashion during the year?
Comment on this
There are 184 days de rigueur for opening. If it is outside 184 days there is no trouble. I am not aware of any specific fixed limit in the event of a snow storm lasting three months. I do not know. I do not believe there is any fixed limit.
Comment on this
Has the Minister any function in relation to the closing of the school known as The Spike, or would he like to comment on that matter?