Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There was no suggestion that this approach was in place. It was always made clear that what we are trying to do is establish principles of keen cost provision. We want to provide for consultation with parents and this will be done over time through a parent and student charter. We are providing that where exclusive agreements are in place, they should be open to tender. We are also providing an incentive to support this approach. This will not happen overnight but a process is in place that will keep down costs.

As the Chairman noted, reports from the Irish League of Credit Unions have shown the pressure parents are experiencing. Everyone in the education system must make a contribution to keeping down costs. Schools must not specify expensive branded pads when other cheaper items could be used.