Use school grounds responsibly out of hours or face losing them. That is the message from the Department of Education and Children as lighter evenings arrive and school holidays approach. The Department has long had a policy that the grounds of its 40 schools are open to the public to use for recreational purposes during the holidays as they offer a safe environment in which to gather and play. However, anti-social behaviour such as nuisance to neighbours and criminal damage could threaten future out-of-hours use. Eddie Teare, Minister for Education and Children, said: ‘We have an extensive estate, which provides an opportunity for recreation both during and outside normal school hours. Schools are, at the end of the day, funded by the taxpayer and it’s only right that everyone should be able to enjoy their grounds even when schools are closed. ‘However, we have to be sensitive to the fact that schools are located in built-up areas and their facilities should be used responsibly so as not to create a nuisance for others. ‘There have also been occasions when vandalism has occurred and if there are further instances of this, or further anti-social activity, then the Department will instigate legal action against those responsible and may also be forced to consider whether the use of the school grounds by the public can continue.’ Ends