Fr. Paul Connell:

Yes. The next section is the important bit.

It is, therefore, important that policy makers appreciate the work involved in running, yet alone establishing, a book rental scheme. We advocate careful consideration of the above points before coming to any decision about the future of the school book grant and a school book rental scheme. We see e-solutions as a good way forward. It will have the additional benefits of introducing IT as a core part of learning, reducing the weight of school bags and eventually reducing costs to parents.

With regard to uniforms, I echo the comments of previous contributors. Consultation between parents and schools is close on this issue and we all do as much as we can to reduce the cost of uniforms. We share everybody's concerns.

In considering the issue, recognition must be given to the bad financial situation of our schools in the voluntary sector and the serious concerns of boards of management about keeping their schools running.