Courtney McGrailA Dublin-based priest has welcomed proposals for greater use of school buildings, but cautioned that such usage would need proper funding. As part of a three-year strategy, Education Minister Richard Bruton has outlined plans for school buildings to be made available out of hours for afterschool care, homework clubs and other community activities.
“I’m all in favour for schools being used so people start to see schools, not just for one reason, but more as part of the community,” Ayrfield’s Fr Gerry Corcoran told The Irish Catholic.
However, he said, many schools already struggle to meet heating, lighting and other costs, and extra use could cause “big financial burdens”.
“Broadly speaking, in any sort of disadvantaged area, anything that literally helps the children and helps families is to be applauded, but what seems like a very simple and very noble thing to do can have all sorts of issues with regard to funding,” he said, adding, “It has to be well-funded and well-resourced.”
