Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

In regard to capitation grants, we are looking at another 1% reduction this year. We are also looking at an ever-increasing number of schools running financial deficits. Obviously, that burden is being picked up by parents. I know the Minister's Department is trying to address the cost of sending children back to school and trying to alleviate some of that financial burden parents must face. That is evident from the Minister's extension of funding for the school book rental scheme. The Department is also examining the school uniform issue with the survey. Many schools are reaching crisis point and parents' pockets are not any deeper. I hope the Department can examine this over the next number of years. I do not think schools can continue to face a reduction in capitation grants. Are there any other proposals, schemes or initiatives at which the Department is looking to try to help schools facing financial deficits?