301. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Education and Youth the guidance and supports that are available for groups looking to start an after-school programme including regulations, funding, and the way to apply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54272/26]

The department is supportive of school facilities being used for after-hours school-age childcare, and for early learning and care where there is available accommodation that is not required for school-aged education purposes. The Procedures on the use of school property and school sports facilities outside of school hours are relevant in providing guidance to schools in this regard.  However, it is important that educational requirements, including special education provision, takes precedence for the use of school accommodation.

School authorities considering facilitating such services on school property should ensure that any service provider can confirm compliance with all relevant child protection/childcare legislation, guidelines and regulations. The recommended approach is that where Early Learning and Care is proposed, subject to the relevant consents of Property Owners/Trustee and Patron, rooms or premises may be made available to third parties (registered childcare providers) by means of a legal agreement.

Funding provided to schools by the department is in respect of education provision at primary and post-primary level. Funding for childcare arrangements falls under the remit of the Department of Children, Disability and Equality.